Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has won the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award for the third time, further cementing his reputation as one of football’s outstanding young players.
The 19-year-old received the honour at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, beating four other nominees, including Barcelona team-mate Pau Cubarsí.
The other contenders were Yan Diomande, Lennart Karl and Warren Zaïre-Emery.
Former Ballon d’Or winner Andriy Shevchenko presented the award to Yamal at the ceremony.
Speaking after receiving the prize, Yamal expressed gratitude but insisted that Cubarsí was also deserving of the recognition.
“It’s an honour to be here to receive this prize,” he said through a translator.
“I think this prize should have been for Pau Cubarsí. He’s been playing at a high level and I think he deserves it.”
Yamal’s latest triumph adds to his growing collection of individual honours as he continues to establish himself among the leading talents in world football.
His third consecutive win also highlights his consistency and influence at a young age, with the Barcelona forward continuing to attract attention for his performances on the domestic and international stages.
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