Recently, in a conversation with Jorge Valdano on the program Universo Valdano on the Movistar+ channel, Lamine Yamal analyzed his competitiveness in the race for the Ballon d'Or and spoke about the higher demands he places on himself after winning the World Cup. Currently, only video clips of the interview have been released.
Yamal: “Who would I give it to? To the best player in the world. As for who it will ultimately be awarded to, that's a long story.”
Valdano: “If asking you personally, who would you award it to?”
Yamal: “To be honest, I think... speaking of the best in the world, there are probably two players. I think I deserve it this year, based on the achievements I've attained. Because in my view, Mbappé and I are the two best players in the world.”
Valdano: “Are you that certain in your mind?”
Yamal: “Yes, it is very clear in my mind, and everyone who watches the matches understands it too.”
Self-Examination After Winning the World Cup
Yamal: "After winning the World Cup, I wasn't happy. I think the talk about the injury is true, but that doesn't matter at all, because I know the next World Cup will always come, and even if I've just recovered from an injury, I can deliver the same level of performance.
I think that although I did a lot of things people didn't see—for instance, I think for a manager, having a player who can draw three defenders is an incredible thing, and it's rare... but I wasn't satisfied with my performance. Because I know that for another player, putting on a display like mine would already count as a very outstanding World Cup; but for myself, I could have done more.
I certainly contributed to the team, but I am eagerly looking forward to the arrival of the next World Cup."
Mentioning Football Legends
Yamal: "Many great stars have emerged in football: Leo (Messi), Cristiano (Ronaldo), and... and legends like Diego (Maradona), whom I never had the chance to watch play with my own eyes. But I don't think anyone has ever collected so many honours so quickly. Pelé is an exception; he certainly won a great deal, but in recent years there hasn't been a situation like that.
So I think people might think this in their minds... precisely because I have already won so many honours, perhaps at some point I might slack off. But I know that to leave my name in history, there are thousands upon thousands of things I still have to do..."
