PSG Director Dismisses Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or Chances

Lamine Yamal Ballon d’Or hopes have been firmly dismissed by Paris Saint-Germain sporting director Luis Campos, who believes there should be no debate: Ousmane Dembele is the clear front-runner for football’s most prestigious individual award. The comments have sparked lively discussion in the football world, especially given Yamal’s remarkable rise at Barcelona.

Lamine Yamal Ballon d’Or Debate Heats Up

After a stunning breakthrough season at Barcelona, where he became a regular starter and won La Liga, Lamine Yamal has been mentioned as a potential Ballon d’Or candidate. His technical brilliance, composure under pressure, and ability to change games at just 16 years old have captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike. However, PSG’s sporting director Luis Campos has poured cold water on these suggestions, insisting that Yamal’s achievements, while impressive, pale in comparison to the silverware and impact delivered by Ousmane Dembele.

Campos Backs Dembele for Ballon d’Or Over Yamal

Luis Campos stated, “There is no discussion. The Ballon d’Or belongs to Ousmane Dembele this year.” Campos highlighted Dembele’s role in PSG’s treble-winning season—lifting the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, and most significantly, the UEFA Champions League. According to Campos, Dembele’s performances in the biggest games, including decisive contributions in Champions League knockout matches, set him apart from every other contender.

Yamal, meanwhile, despite his La Liga triumph, did not enjoy the same level of continental success as Dembele. Campos’s comments suggest that, in his eyes, team achievements and contributions on Europe’s grandest stage are the key criteria for Ballon d’Or consideration.

Comparing Yamal and Dembele’s Seasons

Yamal’s stats this season are impressive: a series of match-winning performances for Barcelona, helping them reclaim the La Liga title. He became the youngest ever to start and score for the club in key fixtures, and his growth has been nothing short of spectacular. However, critics point out that Barcelona fell short in the Champions League, exiting earlier than expected.

Dembele, on the other hand, was central to PSG’s historic treble. His pace, creativity, and experience made him an indispensable asset, particularly in the Champions League, where he scored and assisted crucial goals that powered PSG to victory. Campos’s argument rests heavily on these collective and individual achievements.

What Does This Mean for the Ballon d’Or Race?

The Ballon d’Or has always been an award that balances individual brilliance with team success. While Yamal’s emergence is one of the season’s most exciting stories, the lack of European silverware is a significant drawback in his case. Dembele, having proven himself in the heat of Champions League battles and leading his team to multiple trophies, currently stands as a compelling favorite for the award.

For Yamal, this season may serve as a stepping stone to greater honors in the future. At just 16, he has many years ahead to chase the Ballon d’Or, and his development will be closely watched by the footballing world.

Expert Opinion: Is Campos Right to Shut Down Yamal’s Hopes?

Campos’s comments will likely divide opinion among fans and analysts. On one hand, his insistence on the importance of major trophies for Ballon d’Or consideration is consistent with the award’s history. On the other, the Ballon d’Or has often recognized individual brilliance even if the collective achievements weren’t as significant.

In my view, while Ousmane Dembele’s treble with PSG makes him a logical front-runner, Lamine Yamal’s extraordinary talent and impact at such a young age cannot be ignored. If the Ballon d’Or aims to recognize the game’s most influential player in a given year, Yamal deserves to be in the conversation. For more insights and updates on the Ballon d’Or debate and other football news, visit for more news.