Lamine Yamal has turned on the debate for the Golden Ball 2025 After a stellar performance with the Spanish team in the semifinals of the UEFA Nations League in front of France.
In a duel that was considered by many as an “early end” between the two main contenders to the award – Yamal and Ousmane Dembélé -, the young player of FC Barcelona responded with forcefulness: two goals, total prominence and the MVP award of the match.
A direct duel of Lamine Yamal with Dembélé … and a blunt answer
The party was raised by the press and fans as a kind of personal tie between Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembélé, who arrived as favorites to the Golden Ball. While Dembélé went unnoticed, that of Rocafonda made clear why he is considered one of the greatest promises – and realities – of world football.
Yamal not only scored a penalty goal caused by Rabiot (the same one who had publicly challenged him), but also scored a second of play after a great assistance from Pedro Porro. It was a blow to the table that seriously complicates the candidacy of the French.
His numbers in 2025 support him
Goals with the Spanish team in 2025: 6 (3 of them against France)
Season with FC Barcelona: Indisputable figure in a transition template, being the most unbalanced player
Key matches: It shines against great rivals such as Real Madrid and Top Selections like France
Although Barça was eliminated from the Champions League, Yamal has demonstrated leadership and maturity in decisive times. Its impact on the game goes far beyond the goals: it generates danger, overflows, assists and leads.
Imbélé: an outstanding season, but without brightness at the decisive moment
For its part, Ousmane Dembélé has had a remarkable season with Paris Saint-Germain, being a key part of the team that reached the Champions League final. However, in determining times, its performance has been below expectations, especially in matches where more than a title was played: prestige and legacy.
His low level in the face to face against Spain, where he barely intervened and did not generate danger, leaves many doubts about whether he has done enough to deserve the Golden Ball in a year where Yamal has shone when he mattered.
Is Lamine Yamal deserving of the Golden Ball 2025?
With only 17 years, Lamine Yamal has proven to be much more than a promise. His maturity, regularity, and performance in large matches-as this 5-4 against France-positions him as the strongest candidate to win the Golden Ball 2025. If he manages to maintain his level in the final of the Nations League and remains decisive in the Eurocup, France Football will be very difficult to justify another winner.
