Ballon d’Or 2026: He’s different, special – Xavi picks winner

Netherlands head coach, Xavi Hernandez, has picked Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Speaking ahead of his managerial debut against Germany in the Nations League clash on Thursday, Xavi insisted that Yamal is different and special.

According to him,  it would be a good year for the Spain international to win the Ballon d’Or now.

Speaking to SPORT at the KNVB headquarters in Zeist, Xavi said: “Lamine is special, he’s different, he’s 19 and he will undoubtedly win it [2026 Ballon d’Or], but this would be a good year for him to win it now.”

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Xavi coached Yamal at Barcelona during his time as manager of the Catalan club.

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