Monza forward Keita Balde has tipped Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal to claim the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
Speaking on El Chiringuito, the 31-year-old identified Yamal as his preferred candidate as anticipation builds ahead of the award ceremony.
“Lamine should win the Ballon d’Or,” Keita said. “I think he is the player today who, for me globally and individually, has the highest chances of taking home the Ballon d’Or.”
“I think it would be fair, it wouldn’t be a surprise at all because of how he plays football, how he inspires people and kids at his age.”
Yamal was included among the 30 nominees for this year’s award.
The 19-year-old, who helped Spain win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, is competing against notable names including Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe.
The Ballon d’Or winner is expected to be announced later this month in London.
