Raphinha refuses to see Yamal as Ballon d'Or rival: "I'd be extremely happy if he won"
The race for the 2027 Ballon d'Or is already taking shape, with Barcelona team-mates Raphinha and Lamine Yamal among the leading contenders.** But the Brazilian winger insists there is no rivalry between the two.
After Harry Kane claimed the 2026 Ballon d'Or, attention is already turning to who could succeed the England striker next year. Although the season is still in its early stages, Barcelona look set to provide two serious candidates. Lamine Yamal and Raphinha will be competing for individual recognition while continuing to combine their talents on the pitch, with goals and assists likely to strengthen both players' claims.
Raphinha on Yamal: "I don't see him as a rival"
Speaking about the Ballon d'Or race, Raphinha dismissed suggestions that he regards his Barcelona team-mate and friend as a competitor.
"I don't see Lamine as a rival! I want him to achieve as much as possible, and he would say the same about me. If he wins it, I'll be really extremely happy for him."
The Brazilian also made it clear that individual awards are not his main priority.
"Winning the Ballon d'Or? I'll focus on doing my best for the club, not for individual awards. I've always put the interests of the club I play for first."
Rashford praises Yamal: "He's the closest thing to Messi"
Marcus Rashford, who has returned to Manchester United following the end of his loan spell at Barcelona, has also spoken highly of Yamal's extraordinary ability. During a meeting with Manchester United supporters in the Ambassadors' Lounge at Old Trafford, ahead of the match against Roma, Rashford made comments that subsequently emerged on social media.
"Before leaving Barça, I told Lamine Yamal that I had played with some very talented players, but that he was above all of them."
The England forward went even further in his praise of the Barcelona youngster. "I've never seen a player of that age with as much talent as him. He's the closest anyone has come to Messi's level over the years. I believe a lot in this boy's talent, and if he wins seven Ballon d'Or awards, I won't be surprised. He's finished second, third and eighth. And at what age? Nineteen?"
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