Xavi, however, expressed confidence that the Barcelona winger will win the Ballon d’Or in the near future.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former Barcelona midfielder and manager, Xavi Hernandez, has revealed why winger, Lamine Yamal, missed out on this year’s Ballon d’Or.
He justified the decision to snub the La Liga forward recently while speaking with Spanish outlet Marca (via Barca Universal).
Yamal finished in second position in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings behind Paris St Germain striker, Ousmame Dembele.
While analysing how the PSG striker emerged as the winner, Xavi said Yamal must lift the UEFA Champions League (UCL) or the FIFA World Cup to win the converted award.
He, however, admitted that Yamal and the likes of Vitinha, Mohamed Salah, Pedri and Raphinha deserved to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or based on their performances.
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He expressed confidence that Yamal will win the Ballon d’Or in the near future.
Xavi said, “This time, the collective titles carried more weight.
“For me, of course, he deserved it. Vitinha, Salah, Pedri, and Raphinha also deserved it.
“There are many who deserve it, but in the end, the titles carry more weight. Lamine will win it.
“I’m convinced of that, but when his team wins the Champions League or the World Cup.”
