Raphinha: No debate, Yamal is world's best player ahead of Ballon d'Or

Barcelona captain Raphinha tells CazeTV that teammate Lamine Yamal, 19, is the best player in the world right now with "no room for debate" and a "very big margin" over whoever is second. The Spain winger broke into Barca's first team in 2023 under Xavi and is among the top favorites for the 2026 Ballon d'Or awarded Monday in London.

This endorsement from a senior teammate and Brazil international carries weight—Raphinha sees Yamal daily in training and matches. Yamal's rapid rise since his teenage debut has made him the face of Barcelona's new generation.

The Ballon d'Or ceremony takes place Monday in London. For Nigerian fans tracking the next global superstar: Yamal's trajectory mirrors Messi's teenage breakthrough at Barcelona. Will the 19-year-old become the youngest winner since Ronaldo Nazário in 1997?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/10/25/no-room-for-debate-raphinha-names-best-player-in-the-world/