Lamine Yamal may have narrowly missed out on the 2025 Ballon d’Or, but his father, Mounir Nasraoui, believes it is only a matter of time before the Barcelona teenager claims football’s biggest individual prize.
Moments after Ousmane Dembele lifted the award in Paris, a defiant Nasraoui told reporters: “Next year is ours.”
Frustration over Ballon d’Or decision
The 18-year-old finished second, a result that stunned many in Catalunya, where Yamal is already hailed as “the best player in the world.” Speaking to El Chiringuito after the ceremony, Nasraoui voiced his disappointment.
“I think this is the greatest harm, I wouldn’t say theft, but moral harm caused to a human being, because I believe that Lamine Yamal is by far the best player in the world, and by far the one who makes a lot of difference.
Not because he’s my son, but because he’s the best player in the world. I think there is no rival, Lamine Yamal is Lamine Yamal. It must be said that something very strange has happened here. Greetings to all of Spain, and next year it will be a Spanish ball.”
Yamal’s father’s role in his rise
According to beIN Sports, Nasraoui has been central to his son’s journey, from difficult negotiations with La Masía to providing unwavering support both privately and publicly. His presence has been a steady force behind Yamal’s rapid ascent.
Currently, Yamal is sidelined after picking up an injury during the international break. He has already missed three matches, including Barcelona’s Champions League opener against Newcastle.
Club officials confirmed treatment for groin pain, while Spanish outlets later reported additional back discomfort. However, Barcelona’s president remains optimistic the teenager could return in time for this weekend’s La Liga clash.
Although Dembele claimed the Ballon d’Or, Yamal still etched his name in history by retaining the Kopa Trophy for the second consecutive year — further proof of his extraordinary rise.