LaLiga president Javier Tebas believes that one reason why Barcelona's talent Lamine Yamal came in second to Ousmane Dembélé is because of his age. The Barcelona and Spain forward did make history by winning the Kopa Trophy, which is granted to the greatest player under 21 years old, more than once. Yamal had a great season with Barcelona when he was only 18 years old, scoring 18 goals and assisting 25 others in 55 games. His play was a big part of Hansi Flick's team's success in LaLiga and the Copa del Rey, as well as in European events.
"If he had been older than 23, he would have won it, too, I'm sure, but since he was younger, they gave him the other one [Kopa trophy],(via Goal) Tebas said. Meanwhile, Barcelona president Joan Laporta thought
the Champions League was the most important thing in the Ballon d'Or race, while Tebas did not. Since making his Barcelona debut at age 16, Yamal has already set many records. He is now the youngest player to ever play in a European Championship and the youngest scorer in LaLiga history. He helped Spain win the title in the 2024 Euros and was named Young Player of the Tournament.
Real Madrid young star Franco Mastantuono congratulates Lamine Yamal for his impressive finish
On the other note, Real Madrid star Franco Mastantuono extended his wishes to Barcelona young star Lamine Yamal for his impressive finish at the Ballon d'Or. Yamal came second behind Ousmane Dembele. Dembélé, who is 28 years old, scored 35 goals in 53 games for PSG, which won the Champions League, Ligue 1, and the Coupe de France. "I congratulate him on his second place in the Ballon d’Or. I think he’s a great player. Obviously, you don’t need me to tell you that. I try not to compare myself with anyone, but rather to play for my team, which I believe is what later leads to individual achievement", he said to Football Espana.
Franco joined Real Madrid this summer for about €45 million. He has been a regular for Xabi Alonso's team and may play a bigger part as the season goes on.
