Rashford Tips Yamal or Dembele for Ballon d’Or Glory | “He’s Not Normal,” United Star Says
Manchester United star Marcus Rashford has joined the growing chorus of admiration for Lamine Yamal, calling the 17-year-old Barcelona wonderkid a once-in-a-generation talent—and a top contender for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
In a recent sit-down with popular Spanish YouTube channel XBuyer, Rashford was asked to weigh in on the Ballon d’Or race, and his response reflected both deep respect and awe.
🔥 “He’s Not Normal…”
“(Yamal) is gonna be… it’s difficult to put into words what he’s doing because he’s not supposed to be doing it at 16, 17,” Rashford said.
“He’s playing at the highest level. I don’t think we’ve seen it. To have his mentality is a skill. He’s not normal to be doing what he does and he will keep improving.”
Rashford’s praise adds weight to the growing belief that Yamal could become the youngest ever Ballon d’Or winner—a feat that would crown a stunning year for the Barça prodigy.
💫 Dembele Also In the Conversation
Rashford didn’t stop at Yamal. He also tipped Ousmane Dembele, fresh off an electric Champions League-winning campaign with Paris Saint-Germain, as a serious contender.
“If you look at it in football ability [Yamal] has to win, but then you look at Ousmane Dembele, the Champions League…”
With both players dazzling at club and international level, the race is wide open—and Raphinha and Mbappe are still lurking as outside contenders.
💭 OPINION: A Changing of the Guard?
For over a decade, the Ballon d’Or conversation was dominated by Messi and Ronaldo. Now, we're entering a new golden era, and Rashford’s comments capture that shift perfectly.
Yamal, at just 17, embodies fearlessness, flair, and a deep football IQ that defies his age.
Dembele, once riddled with injury doubts, has re-emerged as one of the most complete wingers in the game.
If either wins it, it would send a message that football is not just about stats and stardom—but artistry, mentality, and the audacity to shine young or rise again.
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Final Take:
Whether it’s Yamal making history or Dembele rewriting his narrative, this year’s Ballon d’Or race isn’t just a battle of boots—it’s a celebration of resilience, youth, and revival. And with Rashford’s voice added to the mix, the spotlight burns even brighter.
