Real Madrid megastar names his Ballon d’Or pick between Yamal and Dembele – ‘Do I really need to explain?’ | OneFootball

With the 2024/25 season coming to an end, except for the teams competing in the FIFA Club World Cup, talks about the Ballon d’Or race have been gaining momentum in recent weeks.

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, at the age of only 17, has emerged as a contender for the top prize after a brilliant season wherein he helped his team win the domestic treble.

The teenage gem’s chances could be boosted further if he manages to lead Spain to the UEFA Nations League triumph tomorrow when they face Portugal.

Lamine finds himself up against former Barcelona teammate and PSG mainstay Ousmane Dembele, who played a big role in the French giants’ European treble success.

Mbappe names his choice

Earlier today, Real Madrid superstar and France captain Kylian Mbappe was asked to name his pick for the Ballon d’Or between Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembele.

Mbappe picks Dembele over Lamine for Ballon d’Or. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

And the 26-year-old forward, without any hesitation, stated that he would side with his compatriot over the Barcelona youngster.

“Would I vote for Dembele? Yes. Do I really need to explain? We’re talking about Yamal and Dembele, I’m going for Dembele. It’s very clear,” said Mbappe, as quoted by RMC Sport.

At the same time, though, the Real Madrid ace, who was once again overshadowed by Lamine during Spain’s 5-4 win over France in the Nations League semi-final this week, stated that a lot can change between now and the time when the Ballon d’Or votes are cast.

“Things change very quickly, as the latest winners have shown. We weren’t talking about certain players who won in the end,” Mbappe stated.

“Is it September? A lot will happen between now and then, but today we’re talking about Ousmane and Lamine. That’s why I replied.”