Atlético Madrid midfielder Álex Baena has thrown his weight behind Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, declaring that the teenage forward deserves the award above every other candidate.
Baena: Lamine Yamal ‘Has To’ Win Ballon d’Or
Baena made his position clear after Spain’s 3-2 win over England at Wembley on Saturday, a match in which Lamine opened the scoring and Baena also found the net for Luis de la Fuente’s side.
🗣️ Álex Baena tiene claro sus candidatos al Balón de Oro:
🌟 “El ganador para mí tiene que ser Lamine… Metería a Rodri, Messi y a Fabián”
📹 @JordiGil pic.twitter.com/IQWOqNNhNb
— Diario SPORT (@sport) September 26, 2026
Speaking to Diario Sport, Baena backed his young Spain teammate to take home the Golden Ball at October’s ceremony in Paris.
He said the winner must be Lamine, and named Rodri, Lionel Messi and Fabián Ruiz as other players he would include on his ballot.
Lamine continues to strengthen his case. The 19-year-old helped Barcelona win La Liga and played a starring role as Spain triumphed at the World Cup.
From his right-wing berth, he dazzles for club and country, producing goals, assists and decisive moments in the biggest games.
His latest performance arrived at Wembley, where he scored in Spain’s 3-2 victory over England. That display reinforced why many observers view him as the frontrunner for world football’s top individual prize.
Baena’s support adds another prominent voice to the debate. The Atlético Madrid star knows Lamine well from the Spain squad, and he believes the Barcelona winger has done enough to beat a crowded field.
He also recognizes the quality around the race, but he keeps returning to one name.
With the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaching, Lamine’s supporters will hope his club and country exploits prove decisive.
If Baena gets his way, the teenager will leave Paris with the Golden Ball in his hands.
