Xavi backs Lamine Yamal for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, calling the Barcelona winger special and different ahead of his Netherlands debut

Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernández backed Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or at the KNVB headquarters in Zeist on Thursday, September 24, describing the 19-year-old Spain international as “special” and “different” ahead of his managerial debut against Germany.

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Xavi made the comments while speaking to SPORT before the Netherlands’ UEFA Nations League clash with Germany, as attention continues to build around the candidates for this year’s prestigious individual award.

The former Barcelona manager believes Yamal has already reached a level where his age should not prevent him from challenging for the prize.

“Lamine is special, he’s different, he’s 19 and he will undoubtedly win it, but this would be a good year for him to win it now,” Xavi said.

Yamal has developed into one of Barcelona’s most influential attacking players despite still being only 19.

His performances for the Catalan club and Spain have helped establish him among the leading young talents in European football.

The winger’s progress has also been remarkable because of how quickly he moved from Barcelona’s academy system into first-team football.

His confidence on the ball, ability to create chances and attacking movement have made him a central figure for club and country.

Xavi is particularly familiar with Yamal’s development. The former Barcelona coach worked with the winger during his spell in charge at Camp Nou and saw him progress into a regular senior player.

That previous relationship gives added context to Xavi’s assessment of Yamal. Rather than viewing the winger solely from the perspective of an international opponent, Xavi has watched his development from close range during the early stages of his senior career.

Yamal’s emergence has also coincided with a period of significant change for Barcelona. The club has continued to place considerable emphasis on developing young players, with Yamal becoming one of the most visible examples of that approach.

The Ballon d’Or race, however, contains strong competition from several established players.

The award recognises individual performances over the relevant football season, meaning Yamal’s campaign will be assessed alongside the achievements of other leading players in Europe and internationally.

Yamal has not hidden his own ambition to win the award. The Barcelona winger has previously spoken about his desire to reach the highest level in football, while continuing to insist that his priority is helping his team.

For Xavi, Yamal’s potential extends beyond this year’s award. His prediction that the teenager will “undoubtedly” win the Ballon d’Or reflects the former Barcelona coach’s belief that the winger can remain at the top of the game for many years.

The timing of Xavi’s comments is also significant for the Netherlands coach. The 46-year-old is preparing for his first competitive match in charge of the national team after taking over the position following the 2026 World Cup.

Germany provide the opposition for Xavi’s first assignment, giving the former Spain international an immediate test as he begins a new chapter in his coaching career.

For Yamal, meanwhile, the focus remains on continuing his development and delivering for Barcelona and Spain.

Also read: Rodri: Raphinha Is the Player Who Surprised Me Most

Xavi’s endorsement adds another prominent voice to the growing conversation around the Lamine Yamal Ballon d’Or campaign, but the final decision will depend on the performances and achievements of all the leading contenders during the award period.