Lamine eyes the Ballon d’Or, Flick warns him: focus on Racing | OneFootball

A utopian Barcelona has started the season by smashing everyone who dares challenge them. They have a new test this Wednesday. Newly promoted Racing de Santander travel to Catalonia to visit Camp Nou for the first time in fifteen years. The Blaugrana are obliged to win, because Real Madrid took all three points in Elche and have drawn level with them again at the top, but their biggest star seems to be dividing his attention between the league matchday and the Ballon d’Or.

France Football published the list of thirty nominees for the most prestigious individual award a week ago. Lamine Yamal is among the candidates. So are Pau Cubarsí and Rodri, but at first glance it is the No. 10 who seems most likely -along with Rodri- to take home the prize. And he is certainly not lacking in desire, nor does he hide it.

Lamine gave an interview to Jorge Valdano on Movistar+. The young winger spoke openly: "For me, Mbappé and I are the best in the world. It’s very clear to me; everyone who watches the matches knows it. This year I would deserve it for what I’ve won." He chose to give himself the place he believes he deserves, just as Mbappé also did in a press conference.

The world champion’s remarks, however, did not exactly delight his coach. "I would prefer it not to be like that, but the Ballon d’Or is important for players. It is very important to him. He feels that way and we have to accept it," Hansi Flick said when asked about the issue at last Monday’s press conference. Still, he backed him: "I support players who have confidence, and right now we are playing well. I see what they contribute every day in training. And, of course, I can support them without any problem."

There is still time before the French magazine announces the winner of the trophy. For now, Flick is asking for focus on the pitch. Lamine has started at a very high level, getting better and better. He has scored in four straight matches, with seven goals and two assists in six games. As long as he keeps this up, he can continue taking the time to boost his candidacy.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.