Manu Carreño names Lamine Yamal world’s best player amid Ballon d’Or race

Spanish radio presenter Manu Carreño has named Lamine Yamal the best player in the world, stating that while he does not know who will win the 2026 Ballon d’Or among Yamal, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Harry Kane or Kylian Mbappe, his personal choice is the teenage forward. Carreño made the comment in an interview with Barça Universal, published on October 2, 2026 by Don Silas, and added that for the first time ever Spain possesses a player he considers the world’s best.

Yamal, who helped Spain win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has been described as brilliant for both club and country over the past two seasons, earning praise for his performances at Barcelona and with the national team. The five players highlighted are all leading contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or, which will be awarded later this month in London.

For Nigerian football enthusiasts, Yamal’s recognition underscores the growing impact of players with African roots in European football and may inspire young talents aiming to reach the global elite. As the Ballon d’Or race approaches its conclusion, followers might want to monitor Yamal’s upcoming club fixtures and consider how his style compares to past African-born winners such as George Weah, Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mané.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/10/02/ballon-dor-2026-manu-carreno-names-best-player-in-the-world/