Speaking to ESPN at the FC 27 launch event in New York, the Swedish icon did not hesitate. When asked for his Ballon d’Or choice, Zlatan simply answered “Yamal.”
He has repeatedly called Barcelona and Spain star Lamine Yamal “the best player in the world,” praising the teenager’s ability to create danger no matter how many defenders try to stop him.
Zlatan stressed that the award should go to the player who makes the biggest individual difference on the pitch. In his view, Yamal has done exactly that.
Strong competition ahead of the ceremony
The 19-year-old Yamal finished second in last year’s Ballon d’Or behind Ousmane Dembele. He now sits among the leading contenders alongside Kylian Mbappe. Some bookmakers have even made Yamal the new outright favourite. Thierry Henry has publicly backed Mbappe, creating a clear split among football legends.
The Ballon d’Or ceremony takes place on 26 October in London. Voting has already closed, so Zlatan’s endorsement comes as a high-profile public statement rather than an official vote.
Zlatan’s full set of predictions
In the same quick-fire interview, Zlatan also tipped Barcelona to win both La Liga and the Champions League this season, showing strong faith in his former club and its young star.
Yamal has already impressed with goals and assists for club and country and support from figures like Zlatan and Samuel Eto’o has only increased the spotlight on him.
Whether the voters agree remains to be seen but the Milan legend’s bold call has added energy to the race.
