Joan Gaspart says €140m Barcelona player is better than Lamine Yamal right now | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal continues to attract global attention for his exceptional performances with FC Barcelona, recently finishing second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings, the highest placement among all Barça players.

At only 18 years of age, the young winger has already become one of the most influential and widely discussed talents in world football, with many regarding him as one of the very best players in the game right now.

However, not everyone believes he is the best player in the world just yet. Former club president Joan Gaspart has shared his view that another Blaugrana star currently stands ahead of him.

Speaking on the podcast ‘Sólo para culés‘ (via Mundo Deportivo), Gaspart was asked whether Lamine is the best player in the world. The former president responded candidly:

“For me, Lamine is not the best in the world, although he will be. It is different to say he is than to say he will be. Today, he still isn’t. Pedri, for me, is a much better player. To be the best, you have to be so for all 90 minutes.”

Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Gaspart’s comments reflect the high regard in which Pedri continues to be held. The €140 million-rated Spanish midfielder has been a key figure for Barcelona, known for his ability to dictate play and maintain control in high-pressure moments.

His composure and tactical intelligence have made him a central part of both the club and Spain’s national setup. He recently earned a standing ovation after being substituted in Spain’s 4-0 win over Bulgaria, where his performance once again drew widespread praise.

Lamine, meanwhile, remains at the heart of Barcelona’s attacking identity. Despite his age, he has consistently delivered match-winning performances and continues to prove why many already see him as the heir to the next generation of global football superstars. His creativity, composure, and decisiveness in front of goal make him an indispensable part of Hansi Flick’s side.

While Gaspart’s remarks may spark debate among supporters, they underline the impressive depth of talent in Barcelona’s current generation, a squad that combines youthful brilliance with proven experience and looks ready to shape the club’s future for years to come.