Joao Felix crowns Lamine Yamal as Ballon d’Or favourite over Kane and Mbappe
Portugal forward Joao Felix has publicly declared that Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal should win the Ballon d’Or, placing the youngster ahead of England’s Harry Kane and France’s Kylian Mbappe. Felix made the comments while discussing his own career, his omission from this year’s shortlist and the leading contenders for the prestigious individual prize.
Felix’s credentials and recent form
Felix, who helped Al-Nassr reclaim the Saudi Pro League title, highlighted his own contribution of four goals and three assists in seven appearances this season. He noted that his consistency returned after unsettled spells with Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona and AC Milan. Despite missing the Ballon d’Or shortlist, Felix said the omission did not trouble him.
Why Yamal stands out
When asked to name his Ballon d’Or favourite, Felix immediately singled out Yamal, describing him as the player who “best embodies football”. “If there’s one player who, when you turn on the TV, keeps you glued to the screen, it’s Lamine,” he told AS. Felix also pointed to Yamal’s role in Spain’s World Cup triumph, arguing that a World Cup win in a World Cup year carries extra weight for the Ballon race.
Felix added that while Mbappe and Kane have enjoyed great seasons, “Lamine is football”. He stressed that the teenager’s performances for Barcelona have already attracted support from fellow Spanish star Rodri, who confirmed the club’s belief that Yamal deserves the award.
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Rodri, the World Cup Golden Ball winner, told COPE that Barcelona’s backing of Yamal is “absolutely OK”. He noted that the Golden Ball often legitimises a Ballon d’Or push, reinforcing the case for the academy prodigy.
The Portugal international’s endorsement adds a high‑profile voice to Yamal’s campaign, linking the Ballon d’Or debate to both club and international success. Felix’s comments also underline the broader narrative that the award can reward youthful brilliance as much as established stars.
As the Ballon d’Or shortlist approaches, the conversation will now include Felix’s assertion, Yamal’s World Cup pedigree and the continued form of Kane and Mbappe. The final vote will determine whether the Barcelona forward can translate his early promise into the sport’s most coveted individual honour.