Lothar Matthäus Says Lamine Yamal Is Not Ready for the Ballon d’Or

(Lothar Matthäus. Image via Yahoo Sports)

German football icon Lothar Matthäus has dismissed Lamine Yamal’s chances of clinching the 2026 Ballon d’Or, even though the young Spaniard secured a place among the nominees.

Despite Yamal’s crucial role in Barcelona’s La Liga triumph and Spain’s World Cup victory, Matthäus argues the rising star hasn’t consistently delivered performances worthy of the prestigious accolade.

While acknowledging Yamal’s undeniable talent and long-term potential, the 1990 Ballon d’Or recipient insists the Barcelona prodigy hasn’t done enough this season to justify winning.

Matthäus points out, however, that Yamal’s trophy haul could work in his favor, especially compared to fellow contender Kylian Mbappé, who fell short of silverware both with Real Madrid and France.