Athletic Bilbao superstar explains why Lamine Yamal deserves to win Ballon d’Or: ‘People buy tickets to see him’

Athletic Bilbao superstar explains why Lamine Yamal deserves to win Ballon d’Or: ‘People buy tickets to see him’ Nico Williams has added another high-profile voice to Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or campaign , with the Athletic Bilbao winger arguing that his Spain teammate deserves the award because of the unique appeal of his football. Yamal enters the final stage of the 2026 Ballon d’Or race after another outstanding season for Barcelona and Spain.  The 19-year-old helped Barça win La Liga before playing a major role in Spain’s World Cup triumph, while his individual numbers further strengthened his case. He finished the 2025/26 campaign with 25 goals and 20 assists and has already made history by becoming the first player to receive three Ballon d’Or nominations before turning 20. Nico Williams explains why Yamal deserves Ballon d’Or Williams, who shares a close friendship with Yamal, believes the Barcelona forward should be recognised as the best player in the world. Speaking about his teammate’s candidacy with El Desmarque , the Athletic star was direct in his assessment, stating, “I think Lamine Yamal deserves it.” Nico Williams has backed Lamine Yamal to win the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images) Williams explained that the teenager possesses the rare ability to become the main reason supporters tune into a match. “For me, he should be the best player – the one you switch on the telly for because you want to see him.  “You’re not necessarily watching the team; you switch on the telly to see that player.” That argument has become part of Yamal’s own case for the award.  The Barcelona winger has previously spoken about the entertainment value of his football and believes that should be considered alongside goals, assists and trophies. Yamal has another influential supporter Lamine Yamal has strong backing to win the award. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Williams also pointed to the demand to watch Yamal in person, arguing that the teenager has become a major attraction even when surrounded by Barcelona’s collection of elite players. “I think a lot of people buy tickets to see Lamine when Barça play, despite the great players in that team. They switch on the telly to see Lamine, and that’s only natural, really. “He’s a very spectacular player, very skilful, with enormous talent, and I think he deserves it,” he said. It must be noted that Yamal finished eighth in the 2024 Ballon d’Or voting before rising to second in 2025.  The winner will be announced at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on October 26, with Yamal now heading into the final stretch with another prominent teammate and rival-turned-friend publicly making his case.