Former Real Madrid forward Alvaro Morata backs Barcelona superstar to win Ballon d’Or: ‘He is the best’ | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata believes Lamine Yamal has what it takes to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, highlighting qualities in the Barcelona teenager that he feels are often overlooked.

Speaking to COPE, the current Leganes striker was asked to name his preferences for the prestigious individual award. 

Morata backed Spanish talent including Rodri and Yamal, while also placing Kylian Mbappe and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia among his leading choices.

Yamal’s inclusion came with a particularly strong endorsement, as Morata believes the teenage winger’s performances are underpinned by a level of preparation and professionalism that does not always receive enough attention.

Morata highlights Yamal’s work away from the spotlight

The former Real Madrid forward was particularly impressed by the way Yamal approaches his football away from matchday headlines.

Lamine Yamal is one of the favourites to win the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“He is much smarter and much harder-working than many people think, the way he studies matches and prepares for them.”

That assessment offers a different perspective on the Barcelona sensation. 

Yamal’s creativity, confidence and technical ability have made him one of the most recognisable young players in world football, but Morata pointed instead to the work that takes place before he steps onto the pitch.

Morata also reflected on the Barcelona forward, stating that he considers him worthy of Ballon d’Or recognition.

Alvaro Morata has backed Lamine Yamal for the award. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“I think he is the best. He was dominating in Europe at 16, and what I’ve seen with my own eyes is absolutely incredible.”

Lamine Yamal is making waves

Yamal is one of the favourites to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, and Barcelona, on their part, are doing everything possible in campaigning for the youngster despite strong competition from Kylian Mbappe.

On that note, the likes of Hansi Flick, Deco and even Joan Laporta have backed the teenage sensation to win the highest individual honour in the sport.

Notably, if Yamal indeed wins this year’s Ballon d’Or, he will become the youngest player to do so, and also the first teenager to be bestowed with the title.