Hristo Stoichkov Tips Lamine Yamal for Ballon d’Or Glory, But Sees PSG Duo as Strong Contenders

Legendary Bulgarian footballer Hristo Stoichkov has boldly predicted that Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage sensation, could walk away with this year’s Ballon d’Or. In a recent interview with Carrusel Deportivo (via GOAL), Stoichkov didn’t just praise the youngster’s electric performances — he even went so far as to say he’d personally hand over the award if Yamal wins it.

“I really enjoy watching Yamal because he has so many interesting qualities,” Stoichkov said. “If Yamal wins [this year’s Ballon d’Or], I will give it to him personally.”

However, the former Ballon d’Or winner was quick to highlight that PSG duo Marquinhos and Vitinha are also worthy contenders after a season that saw them secure an impressive treble — Ligue 1, French Cup, and the UEFA Champions League.

“If you tell me that Paris Saint-Germain’s Marquinhos is the one to [challenge Yamal], I would believe you too. We also have Vitinha, who has also played fantastically this season.”

🔍 Analysis & Opinion

This year’s Ballon d’Or race is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. On one hand, you have Lamine Yamal, who at just 17 has already helped Barcelona clinch both La Liga and Copa del Rey, and impressed globally with Spain at the EUROs. His flair, maturity, and consistency have made him more than just a prodigy — he’s the present and the future.

On the other side, Vitinha and Marquinhos have anchored a PSG side that finally broke the European jinx, lifting the Champions League trophy under Luis Enrique. Vitinha’s midfield dominance and Marquinhos' leadership in defense have been critical. And let’s be honest — Champions League success has historically held heavy weight in Ballon d’Or decisions.

💡 The wild card? If PSG’s treble wins make enough of a statement, Vitinha could pull a Modrić 2018-style upset. And with Stoichkov — a former Ballon d'Or winner himself — vouching for both sides, the tension is real.

🗳️ Fan Reactions:

💬 “Yamal is rewriting history books. If he keeps this up, just give him the Ballon d’Or.”
💬 “Marquinhos deserves more recognition. He’s been world-class all year.”
💬 “Vitinha bossed the midfield in every UCL game. Ballon d’Or worthy!”

🏆 Trending Hashtags:

#BallonDorRace
#LamineYamal
#PSGTreble
#VitinhaMasterclass
#MarquinhosWall
#BarcelonaFuture
#GoldenBoyToGoldenBall

📌 Final Thought:

Whether it's youth brilliance from Yamal, PSG’s golden redemption with Vitinha and Marquinhos, or a surprise twist, this Ballon d’Or race is wide open.

🎙️ Who deserves it more? The teenage wonderkid or the Champions League winners? Let us know in the comments.