Lamine Yamal’s uncle, Abdul Abdellaoui, has sparked heated reactions after expressing his disappointment over Harry Kane’s victory at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Kane made history on Monday by becoming only the fifth Englishman to win football’s most prestigious individual award. Kylian Mbappé finished second, while Barcelona wonderkid Yamal had to settle for third place.
Despite being just 19, Yamal was hoping to become the youngest Ballon d’Or winner ever. He enjoyed an outstanding season, scoring 25 goals and providing 20 assists in 57 appearances, while helping Barcelona win La Liga and Spain lift the World Cup.
Although he missed out on the main prize, Yamal claimed the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year, recognising him as the world’s best young player.
However, his uncle was far from satisfied with the final result.
Speaking after Kane was announced as the winner, Abdellaoui insisted that his nephew was the best player in the world and deserved the award ahead of the Bayern Munich striker.
He praised Kane’s goalscoring ability but argued that Yamal offers something special on the pitch, adding that people who truly appreciate football would rather watch the Barcelona star.
Abdellaoui also suggested that Yamal’s young age may have worked against him, claiming voters believe he has plenty of time to win the award, while Kane was given the recognition now.
His remarks quickly attracted criticism from football fans on Reddit, with several accusing him of disrespecting Kane and questioning the class behind his comments.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta also backed Yamal, saying he believed the teenager had done enough to win the Ballon d’Or. However, he accepted the voters’ decision and expressed confidence that the disappointment would motivate the youngster to try again next year.
With Yamal already making an impressive start to the 2026/27 campaign, the young Barcelona sensation could be among the leading contenders for the next Ballon d’Or.
🔥 WHO DESERVED THE 2026 BALLON D’OR — HARRY KANE OR LAMINE YAMAL?
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