Milla endorses teenage Yamal for Ballon d'Or, calls 19-year-old's play 'incredible'
Former Como midfielder Luis Milla has named Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal as his choice for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, stating the teenager's flair and age make his potential win "spectacular." Speaking on Spanish radio via Mundo Deportivo, Milla acknowledged that based solely on titles and quality, Manchester City's Fabian Ruiz might be more deserving - but personally awards Yamal for his extraordinary on-pitch contributions at just 19 years old.
The Ballon d'Or winner will be announced in London on October 26, with Yamal among the leading contenders. If he wins, he would become the youngest recipient in the award's history, surpassing previous young winners like Ronaldo and Messi who claimed theirs in their early 20s.
For Nigerian football fans watching rising stars like Victor Osimhen excel internationally, Milla's endorsement highlights how youth talent is reshaping global football's elite tiers. It prompts reflection: Are Nigeria's youth academies producing players with Yamal's technical flair and fearlessness, or should focus shift to nurturing such creative talents alongside physical prowess?