Lamine Yamal
Earlier in the season, Lamine Yamal ignited conversation around his Ballon d’Or candidacy, even hinting that the main competition was between himself and Ousmane Dembélé. Spanish media amplified this sentiment, passionately backing the youthful Barcelona prodigy. Despite being only 18, Yamal’s performances have secured him a place among the leading contenders. That said, Barcelona’s Champions League exit at the semi-final stage and defeat in the Nations League final have slightly diminished his standing, making him more of an outsider than a clear favorite.