Nico Williams backs Lamine Yamal for 2026 Ballon d’Or, cites TV draw

Nico Williams, Athletic Bilbao winger and Spain international, told El Desmarque that Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal deserves the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Williams said, “I think Lamine Yamal deserves it. For me, he should be the best player – the one you switch on the telly for because you want to see him.” He noted that Yamal and he are close friends and teammates with Spain, highlighting Yamal’s recent World Cup win with Spain in summer 2026 and his LaLiga title with Barcelona the previous season.

The endorsement matters because it spotlights a 17‑year‑old who has already won senior international silverware and a major league trophy, suggesting a generational shift in football excellence. For Nigerian fans tracking rising African talent, Yamal’s rise shows how early breakthroughs can shape global awards conversations, potentially influencing scouting and youth development focus locally.

With the Ballon d’Or race heating up, will you back Yamal’s case over established stars like Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, or do you believe experience still outweighs youthful flair in deciding football’s top individual honor?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/26/ballon-dor-2026-williams-names-player-who-deserves-to-win-award/