French journalist accuses Lamine Yamal of using ‘clever’ strategy in Ballon d’Or push: ‘He has understood everything’ | OneFootball

French football journalist Walid Acherchour believes Barcelona star forward Lamine Yamal is deliberately influencing the Ballon d’Or conversation by turning it into a direct contest with Kylian Mbappe.

Yamal has made an explosive start to the season, registering seven goals and two assists across his first six games in all competitions. 

With Barcelona also openly supporting his candidacy, the teenager has become one of the central figures in the 2026 Ballon d’Or discussion.

Acherchour, however, believes there is a well-thought-out element to how Yamal is approaching the debate.

“Lamine Yamal has understood everything. He wants to make the Ballon d’Or debate about him and Kylian Mbappe.”

Acherchour believes Yamal wants rivals out of the picture

The French journalist argues that making the award feel like a two-player race could benefit Yamal by pushing other major contenders into the background.

“He wants to take the PSG players and Harry Kane out of the debate.”

For what it is worth, it is important to understand that the likes of Ousmane Dembele and Harry Kane are among the names being discussed alongside Yamal and Mbappe. 

Acherchour believes Yamal understands that allowing too many players to remain at the centre of the conversation could complicate his own case.

“He knows that Ousmane Dembele and Harry Kane are dangers to him,” he said.

Barcelona have already begun building public support around their young star, with Joan Laporta, Hansi Flick, Deco and several players backing Yamal, with further support expected as the Ballon d’Or discussion intensifies.

Yamal’s form gives his argument real substance

Lamine Yamal is among the favourites to win the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The strategy Acherchour describes would only work if Yamal’s performances could sustain the attention. So far, they have done exactly that.

The 19-year-old has combined goals and assists with another influential start for Barça, while his case is also strengthened by the trophies and World Cup success being discussed around the award.

Acherchour believes Yamal is conscious of how those factors could play out if the race is reduced to himself and Mbappe.

“It’s very good communication from Lamine Yamal because he’s thinking: ‘If it’s me against Mbappe, I’m going to win the Ballon d’Or.’

“That’s my opinion. I’m convinced of it,” he concluded.