Javi Martinez Backs Lamine Yamal for Ballon d’Or, Hails Him as World’s Best

Former Athletic Bilbao and Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez has thrown his weight behind Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to win this year’s Ballon d’Or.

The 18-year-old winger, who dazzled for Barcelona last season, has been tipped by many as one of the brightest stars of his generation. Martinez went a step further, boldly declaring Yamal not only the best in Spain but also the finest footballer in the world at the moment.

Speaking via BarcaTimes on X, Martinez said:
“Balon d’Or? Sorry Paris Saint-Germain, for me, Lamine Yamal was the best last season. He’s also not just the best in Spain, but the whole world.”

Yamal’s meteoric rise has made him one of the frontrunners for the prestigious award, with his electric pace, creativity, and ability to influence games at such a young age capturing the attention of fans and pundits alike.

Opinion:
Martinez’s statement is bold, perhaps even controversial, but it underlines just how special Yamal’s breakout has been. In a football world dominated by established names like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Lionel Messi, hearing a legend back an 18-year-old as the best in the world is both refreshing and telling.

Is Yamal truly the best player in the world right now? That’s up for debate. His talent is undeniable, his ceiling is sky-high, and his performances for Barcelona last season showed maturity beyond his years. But the Ballon d’Or has traditionally rewarded not just brilliance, but consistency and decisive moments in the biggest matches.

Still, one can’t help but admire the excitement Yamal brings to the game. He represents the future, a reminder that football never stops producing magic. Whether or not he wins the Ballon d’Or this year, Martinez’s backing highlights a growing belief that the Barcelona starlet isn’t just a talent for tomorrow—he’s already shaping today.

If Yamal continues on this trajectory, the Ballon d’Or may not just be a dream. It could soon become a reality.