Imagine a world where football’s highest individual honor is awarded not just for team success, but for sheer individual brilliance. That’s the debate Zlatan Ibrahimovic ignited when he boldly declared, ‘I would have given the Ballon d’Or to Lamine Yamal.’ But here’s where it gets controversial—was the 18-year-old Barcelona prodigy truly robbed, or is the football world missing the bigger picture? Let’s dive in.
Just under a month ago, the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris left fans and pundits divided. While PSG’s Ousmane Dembele lifted the coveted Golden Orb, it was Lamine Yamal’s second-place finish that stole the spotlight. The young Spaniard, already a two-time Kopa Trophy winner, had captivated hearts with his mesmerizing performances. Yet, the Ballon d’Or eluded him—a decision that didn’t sit well with many, including football legends like Xavi Hernandez, who openly stated, ‘Lamine deserved to win.’
And this is the part most people miss—Zlatan Ibrahimovic, never one to hold back, weighed in with a perspective that challenges conventional wisdom. Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Swedish icon argued that the award should prioritize a player’s ability to single-handedly change the game. ‘For me, Yamal did that,’ Ibrahimovic asserted. ‘I would have given it to Yamal.’ This raises a thought-provoking question: Should the Ballon d’Or celebrate collective achievements, or should it crown the player who defies the ordinary?
While Lamine didn’t take home the top prize, his runner-up finish at just 18 years old—in only his second full season at the elite level—is nothing short of extraordinary. Here’s the kicker—if this La Masia graduate maintains his trajectory, he’s not just a one-time contender but a future multiple Ballon d’Or winner. For now, his focus remains on recovery from a minor injury, ensuring he’s ready for Barcelona’s La Liga clash against Girona post the international break.
Controversy alert: Is the Ballon d’Or losing its essence by favoring team success over individual genius? Or is Zlatan’s view too idealistic in today’s team-centric football? Let’s spark a debate—do you think Lamine Yamal was the rightful winner, or is the current system fair? Share your thoughts below and let’s keep the conversation alive!
