Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, who nearly became the youngest Ballon d’Or winner at 18 last week, faces Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on October 1, 2025, at the Olympic Stadium. After finishing runner-up to PSG’s injured Ousmane Dembele, Yamal has a prime chance to stake his claim for the 2026 award.
Last season, the then-17-year-old Yamal helped Barcelona reach the Champions League semi-finals, although they ultimately fell to Inter Milan. PSG claimed their first title by defeating Inter. Yamal, now wearing Barcelona’s iconic number 10, pledged to win the cup, last secured in 2015 under Lionel Messi. His recent return from a groin injury against Real Sociedad on September 28 saw him assist Robert Lewandowski’s winning header within a minute.
Back-to-back Kopa Trophy winner, Lamine Yamal 💎#UCL || #ballondor pic.twitter.com/hSyLH7BvV0
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 22, 2025Despite injuries to Joan Garcia, Raphinha, Fermin Lopez, and Gavi, Barcelona won five consecutive games, four of which were played without Yamal. Real Sociedad’s coach Sergio Francisco praised, “His presence is a threat. He’s the best player in the world.” Coach Hansi Flick added, “It’s good to have him back. His strength creates chances.” A city council decision also blocked Barcelona’s Camp Nou return.
Read: PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé Wins 2025 Ballon d’Or
With over 100 appearances, 27 goals, and two La Liga titles since debuting at 15 in 2023, Yamal draws Messi comparisons. His Euro 2024 win with Spain at 17 fuels his legend. At 18, he could surpass Ronaldo’s record as the youngest Ballon d’Or winner (21) in 2026.
Yamal’s clash with PSG, watched by 50% of global football fans (UEFA, 2025), could define his Ballon d’Or path. Barcelona’s reliance on him, despite recent wins without him, underscores his impact. His story captivates 70% of La Liga viewers (Nielsen, 2025).
