Lamine Yamal explains why he should win the Ballon d’Or: "There are few players who make people enjoy the game like I do"

 Lamine Yamal is continuing his campaign for the Ballon d’Or. This time, speaking to Spanish state broadcaster TVE, the Barcelona star made it clear that he believes he is currently one of the most distinctive players in European soccer.

“I think that the way I play and the way I am, right now in European soccer, although Messi will always be there, there are few players who play the way I do, who make people enjoy the game like I do, and I notice that.”

Neymar: Lamine Yamal’s idol

That desire to entertain is something Yamal has taken from his idol.

“Making people enjoy the game is my goal. I’ve always said that my role model was Neymar for that very reason.”

Yamal also believes that quality should be one of the defining criteria for the Ballon d’Or.

“So, I think the Ballon d’Or has to do with that, with being the best player, the player you enjoy watching the most, the one who is a step above the rest and who you enjoy watching. I think that’s what sets me apart.”

When asked about the World Cup, Yamal was equally clear about what it could mean for his chances.

“With the World Cup, I have a better chance of winning it. Last year, I was missing the Champions League, which PSG won. This year, I have a better chance.”

For Yamal, winning the World Cup could be the key to finally claiming the coveted individual prize. And despite missing out on the Champions League, he is satisfied with his season.

“I’m at peace with the year I’ve had. I wouldn’t change anything.”

Yamal stands by his Ballon d’Or comments

Yamal has faced criticism, along with Kylian Mbappé, over their respective campaigns for the Ballon d’Or. But the Barcelona forward was unequivocal in his response.

“If Mbappé and I don’t ask for it, they’ll ask us why we don’t do it. They ask us to be honest, but when we are, they criticize us. I made it clear what I thought, and I don’t regret saying it.”

Putting the Ballon d’Or debate aside, Yamal feels he is currently playing the best soccer of his career.

“I’m growing a lot. I’m happier, I’m more professional, and I’m very happy with the start to the season.”

He also remains ambitious with the Spanish national team.

“I have never won the Nations League, and I’m motivated to win it. It’s the one title I’m missing with the national team.”