Why Lamine Yamal Missed Out on Ballon d’Or to Dembele

Barcelona legend Xavi has shed light on why Lamine Yamal, the young Barcelona sensation, lost the 2025 Ballon d’Or to Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele. This outcome has sparked debates among fans and pundits, as two of football’s most electrifying wingers went head-to-head for one of the sport’s most prestigious individual honors.

Lamine Yamal vs Ousmane Dembele: The Ballon d’Or Race

Lamine Yamal’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. The Barcelona forward, still in his teens, dazzled La Liga and European fans with his flair, creativity, and match-winning performances throughout the 2024–25 season. His technical skills, vision, and ability to impact games from the wing drew widespread comparisons to some of the game’s greatest talents.

However, Ousmane Dembele, who previously donned the Barcelona shirt and now stars for Paris Saint-Germain, had a campaign that set him apart on the global stage. Dembele’s contributions at crucial moments—especially in securing PSG’s domestic triumphs and their deep run in Europe—were integral to his Ballon d’Or credentials. The Frenchman’s consistent output, leadership, and knack for game-changing moments ultimately swayed voters in his favor.

Xavi’s Insight: What Lamine Yamal Needs for Future Ballon d’Or Glory

Xavi, regarded as a Barcelona legend both as a player and manager, was candid in his assessment of Yamal’s Ballon d’Or journey. Speaking after the award ceremony, Xavi pointed out that talent alone is not enough. “Lamine Yamal is a phenomenal talent, but the Ballon d’Or is decided by consistency, team success, and influence in decisive matches,” Xavi remarked. He highlighted that while Yamal’s individual brilliance was evident, Dembele’s ability to deliver in big games—especially on the international stage—gave him the edge.

According to Xavi, Yamal must continue to refine his game, strive for greater consistency, and play pivotal roles in securing major team honors if he wants to lift the Golden Ball in the future. “He’s still at the beginning of his journey. If he continues like this, works hard, and leads his club and country to important trophies, his time will come,” said Xavi.

The Importance of Team Achievements and Leadership

The Ballon d’Or often rewards those who combine individual brilliance with collective success. Dembele’s leadership at PSG, helping guide a young squad to silverware and impressive European campaigns, weighed heavily in his favor. While Yamal’s technical prowess is undeniable, Xavi stresses the importance of contributing to team victories, especially in the most challenging matches.

Yamal’s journey mirrors the paths of other past greats—rising stars who had to bide their time and accumulate achievements before being recognized as the world’s best. Xavi’s message is clear: the next step for Yamal is to translate his individual skills into decisive contributions during championship runs.

Lamine Yamal’s Bright Future in World Football

Despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or, Lamine Yamal’s trajectory remains promising. The Barcelona starlet is already a key figure for both club and country, and his performances hint at even greater heights ahead. Fans and analysts agree that with continued growth, maturity, and leadership, Yamal could soon become a perennial Ballon d’Or contender.

For supporters eager to follow Lamine Yamal’s journey and Barcelona’s fortunes, visit for more news and updates on global football.

Opinion: Yamal’s Setback Is Just the Beginning

Missing out on the Ballon d’Or will surely fuel Lamine Yamal’s hunger. At just 18, he has already made history with Barcelona and Spain. With the right guidance and relentless pursuit of excellence as outlined by Xavi, Yamal’s time at the pinnacle of world football may arrive sooner than many think. His setback this year should be seen not as a disappointment but as a powerful motivator for an even brighter future.