Barcelona gem weighs in on Lamine vs Dembele for Ballon d’Or – ‘Should definitely be in…’ | OneFootball

Currently on international duty with Spain, Barcelona midfielder Gavi recently offered his thoughts on the team’s excellent 2024/25 season.

The youngster also talked about Paris Saint-Germain’s recent Champions League triumph, notably heaping praise on coach Luis Enrique.

Gavi on PSG’s UCL triumph, Dembele and Enrique

Gavi didn’t hesitate in declaring PSG deserved champions of the UCL this season as they beat Inter Milan 5-0 in the final.

“Honestly, Paris has a great team that deserved this edition of the Champions League. As for the final, it was too much for me,” he said (h/t Catalunya Radio).

The young midfielder went on to talk about Luis Enrique, declaring him one of his favourite managers.

“For me, Luis Enrique is number one, always. He’s the best, and I’m very happy for him, because he and his family deserve it – and also Rafael (Enrique’s assistant), I’m very happy for him too,” he said.

On that note, Gavi was also asked about the Ballon d’Or race, which appears to be favouring Dembele at the moment following his Champions League triumph, although many have also backed Yamal.

Gavi, despite admitting that Dembele is ‘like a brother’ to him, backed Lamine Yamal to win the prestigious award.

“Dembele is like my brother, and he had a great season. For me, he should definitely be in the top three, and I will be very happy for him, really. However, the season that Lamine had is a unique season,” he said.

Gavi is a huge admirer of Luis Enrique (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Gavi on Barcelona’s season, his own game

Gavi shifted focus to Barcelona, who are coming on the back of a stellar campaign under the leadership of new coach Hansi Flick.

“It was an amazing season for the team, but what we lacked was the Champions League. Anyway, we had a great season that will remain in history, and God willing, we will now win this title with the national team,” he said.

Finally, Gavi talked about criticisms of his own game, reminding critics that he is much more than just being aggressive in the second line of press.

“I understand people who hate me because of the way I play on the field, because I am very competitive and always want the best for my team, so it is natural that many people hate me.

“But also, many people forget how good I am with the ball; those who understand football will also know how good I am with the ball, and that’s why I say that,” he stated.

Talking about his role in the team and the position he prefers, Gavi added: “My advantage is that I can play in any position in midfield. I’m probably the only one on the team who can play that many positions.

“I played as a winger, playmaker, 8 and 6 and I think this is a big advantage I have, and the coach takes it into consideration. I’d probably feel more comfortable in a double pivot or as a left winger going inside. In the end, I will play wherever the coach wants.”

On the competition for places in midfield, he noted: “The competition in the double pivot was strong this season with Frenkie and Pedri, and they played because they deserved it.

“They had an amazing season, and I am very happy for them and I will always give my best at this club, which I consider the best.”