Lamine Yamal backs himself and Mbappe as world’s best two players

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has boldly placed himself alongside Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe as the two best players in the world, while insisting he deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Speaking about the ongoing Ballon d’Or race, Yamal said he believes there are “perhaps only two players” who can be considered the best in the world this year — himself and Mbappe.

“For me, Kylian Mbappe and I are the best two players, and anyone who watches the matches knows that,” Yamal said.

The teenager also made it clear that he believes he deserves the prestigious individual award this year, setting up an intriguing battle with Mbappe.

Yamal has emerged as one of the biggest stars in world football despite his young age, while Mbappe remains one of the leading contenders for the sport’s biggest individual honours.

With the 2026 Ballon d’Or race heating up, Yamal’s confident statement adds further spice to what could become a closely contested battle between the Barcelona star and his Real Madrid rival.