Daily News 19

Tag: Lamine Yamal

  • Barcelona Legend Reveals Surprise Ballon d’Or Pick

    Barcelona Legend Reveals Surprise Ballon d’Or Pick

    Key Highlights

    • Barcelona legend Carles Rexach has publicly endorsed Raphinha as a deserving Ballon d’Or winner despite the Brazilian’s absence from this year’s shortlist.
    • Rexach argues the award should reflect current form, stating Raphinha’s performances merit the prestigious individual honor.
    • The endorsement highlights a discrepancy between the official 30-man nominee list and expert assessments of the winger’s 2024 impact.

    Rexach Champions Raphinha’s Ballon d’Or Credentials

    Former Barcelona player and coach Carles Rexach has weighed into the debate surrounding the 2024 Ballon d’Or, delivering a strong endorsement of Raphinha that contradicts the official nomination list released by France Football. The Brazilian winger, who has been instrumental in Hansi Flick’s revitalized Barcelona side, was notably omitted from the 30-player shortlist announced earlier this month. Rexach, a respected voice at Camp Nou having served the club in various capacities over five decades, contends that the selection committee overlooked the player’s current trajectory and decisive influence on matches.

    Current Form Versus Historical Voting Cycles

    The crux of Rexach’s argument rests on the timing of the award relative to the football calendar. While the Ballon d’Or traditionally assesses a player’s output over the preceding European season, the veteran believes the “current situation” on the pitch should carry decisive weight. Raphinha has started the 2024-25 campaign in scintillating fashion, contributing goals and assists at a rate that places him among the statistical elite in La Liga and the Champions League. Rexach’s stance suggests a growing sentiment among purists that individual awards must evolve to recognize peak performance windows rather than relying solely on retrospective seasonal aggregates.

    A Legend’s Perspective on Modern Greatness

    Carles Rexach’s opinion carries significant historical gravity. As a member of Johan Cruyff’s “Dream Team” and a long-time technical director, his evaluation of attacking talent is rooted in the Barcelona philosophy of dominant, creative football. He sees in Raphinha a player embodying the directness and goal threat required at the highest level. The omission of the 27-year-old from the shortlist—while teammates like Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski were included—has sparked discussion regarding the criteria used by the international jury of journalists. Rexach’s intervention amplifies the narrative that Raphinha’s resurgence under Flick represents one of the most compelling individual storylines in European football this year.

    Why This Matters

    The discrepancy between expert opinion and the official Ballon d’Or shortlist underscores an ongoing tension in football’s most prestigious individual award. The voting process, conducted by a global panel of journalists, finalizes its selections months before the ceremony, potentially missing late-season surges or early-season explosions like Raphinha’s current form. For Barcelona, the debate serves as a validation of their sporting project under Hansi Flick, demonstrating that their key assets are receiving world-class recognition from within the game, even if institutional awards lag behind. As the ceremony approaches, the conversation sparked by figures like Rexach may influence future reforms to the voting timeline or criteria.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why was Raphinha left off the 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist?
    The shortlist reflects performances during the 2023-24 season, a period in which Raphinha struggled with injuries and inconsistent form before his current resurgence under Hansi Flick.
    What is Carles Rexach’s connection to FC Barcelona?
    Carles Rexach is a club legend who played for Barcelona for 15 years, later serving as first-team coach, sporting director, and technical advisor across multiple decades.
    Who are the Barcelona players nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or?
    Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski were the Barcelona representatives included on the 30-man shortlist announced by France Football.
  • Lamine Yamal Misses Brother’s Birthday as Barcelona Surprises Party

    Lamine Yamal Misses Brother’s Birthday as Barcelona Surprises Party

    Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal missed his younger brother Keyne’s fourth birthday, but the club ensured the celebration still carried a distinct Blaugrana touch. The party, decorated with a Captain America and Hulk theme, featured a surprise appearance by the Barcelona mascot CAT, who joined the Marvel superhero to entertain Keyne and his friends.

    Mascot CAT Steals the Show at Superhero-Themed Party

    Footage shared by the boys’ mother captured the moment CAT arrived alongside Captain America, quickly becoming a highlight of the afternoon. The mascot played with the children, and Keyne’s excitement was evident as he interacted with one of his favorite club symbols.

    Keyne Shows Off Dance Moves and Rhythm

    The videos also revealed Keyne’s love for dancing and his impressive natural rhythm. With football, Barcelona, and now dancing among his favorite activities, the youngest member of the Yamal family appears to be following in his older brother’s footsteps in more ways than one.

    Lamine Yamal, who has rapidly become a key figure for both Barcelona and Spain, was absent due to professional commitments, but the club’s gesture kept the family connection to Camp Nou front and center on a special day.

  • Lamine Yamal’s Exceptional Season Bolsters Ballon d’Or Case

    Lamine Yamal’s Exceptional Season Bolsters Ballon d’Or Case

    Lamine Yamal has made it clear he will not campaign for the Ballon d’Or, telling a press conference days ago that he refuses to beg for the honor. Yet the Barcelona winger firmly believes he deserves the award, a stance he has repeated across multiple appearances. With voting closing on September 28 and the ceremony set for October 26 at the London Palladium, the 19-year-old is building a compelling case through sheer performance.

    Elite Company on the 30-Player Shortlist

    Yamal features among 30 finalists that read like a who’s who of world football: Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Cucurella, Rodri Hernández, Fabián Ruiz, Bruno Fernandes, and Ferran Torres. The competition is fierce, but Yamal’s recent output places him squarely in the conversation.

    Direct Claim to the Top Spot

    Speaking on Universo Valdano on Movistar Plus, the La Masia graduate delivered his boldest statement yet:

    “Mbappé and I are the two best, but I think I would deserve the Ballon d’Or,”

    stated the teenager, framing the race as a two-horse contest while staking his personal claim.

    Numbers That Demand Attention

    Yamal’s start to the season provides statistical backing for his confidence. Across six matches—five in LaLiga and one in the Champions League—he has registered seven goals and two assists. The most striking stretch came in his last four outings against Rayo Vallecano, Valencia, Levante, and Feyenoord, where he scored in every game, including braces in all three domestic fixtures.

    Those six league goals put him among the Pichichi leaders alongside Camello, Mbappé, and Raphinha.

    Institutional Backing From Barcelona

    While Yamal insists he needs no campaign, his club is openly championing his candidacy. Vice-president Rafa Yuste offered a pointed endorsement:

    “I hope justice is done and they give it to Lamine,”

    Yuste commented hours ago. President Joan Laporta went further in remarks days earlier:

    “He is one of the big favorites and I would love for him to win it. He is spectacular. He has exceptional quality. He is a genius,”

    Laporta said. Teammates have also publicly argued that the winger merits the coveted trophy.

    Voting Criteria and Remaining Window

    The 100 journalism professionals casting ballots weigh three pillars: decisive and impressive individual performances; collective results and titles with club and country; and class and fair play. Yamal’s overall tally across all three criteria makes him a genuine favorite, but the two-week window before the September 28 deadline still offers opportunity to consolidate—or relinquish—pole position.

  • Lamine Yamal and Inés García Spark Family Talk with Adorable Puppy Moment

    Lamine Yamal and Inés García Spark Family Talk with Adorable Puppy Moment

    Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal and his partner Inés García delighted fans this week after sharing a heartwarming glimpse into their personal lives on social media. The couple posted photos posing with two white Labrador puppies, sparking widespread excitement and speculation about their future together.

    Couple Debuts Adorable Puppies in Matching Outfits

    In the images shared online, Yamal and García each cradled one of the puppies while dressed in coordinating white outfits. The coordinated look — matching the dogs’ pale coats — gave the impression of a young family of four, sending social media into a frenzy. Supporters flooded the comments with admiration for the “sweet scene” and praise for the couple’s evident affection for their new companions.

    Fans Speculate on Relationship Milestone

    The post quickly fueled conjecture that the puppies represent a significant step in the relationship. Observers noted that caring for two dogs together suggests a deepening commitment, with many interpreting the move as a precursor to more formal milestones. Neither Yamal nor García has publicly confirmed any engagement or marriage plans, but the symbolic weight of jointly raising pets has not been lost on their followers.

    Yamal’s Rising Stardom Adds to Public Interest

    As one of world football’s most exciting young talents, the 17-year-old Yamal attracts intense scrutiny both on and off the pitch. His performances for Barcelona and the Spanish national team have made him a global headline-maker, and glimpses into his private life — especially moments this wholesome — generate massive engagement. García, who maintains a lower public profile, has increasingly appeared alongside him in social posts, further cementing their status as one of football’s most watched young couples.

    For now, the focus remains on the puppies — and the joy they’ve brought to fans worldwide. Whether this marks the start of a broader family journey remains to be seen, but the reaction underscores just how invested the public has become in Yamal’s life beyond the touchline.

  • Lamine Yamal Leaves Barcelona Teammates in the Dust

    Lamine Yamal Leaves Barcelona Teammates in the Dust

    FC Barcelona carried their Champions League momentum into a final training session ahead of a LaLiga trip to Levante, with Lamine Yamal producing a moment of individual brilliance that underscored his rising status in world football.

    Champions League statement sets the tone

    Fresh off a brilliant attacking display against Feyenoord during their Champions League debut, FC Barcelona continues to show why they might win it all this season. The convincing European performance has amplified optimism around the squad as domestic duties resume.

    Yamal dazzles in pre-match preparation

    During the final training session before their LaLiga fixture away to Levante, Lamine Yamal shook a pair of teammates before scoring a thing of beauty, reminding the world why he’s a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or. The sequence highlighted the teenager’s close control, acceleration, and composure in front of goal.

    Early chapters of a generational talent

    And this is just the start of his brilliant career. At an age when most players are still developing in academy systems, Yamal is already delivering decisive moments on the biggest stages, blending creativity with an end product that belies his years.

  • Lamine Yamal and Inés García Welcome Two Puppies, Growing Their Family

    Lamine Yamal and Inés García Welcome Two Puppies, Growing Their Family

    Lamine Yamal and Inés García Welcome Two Puppies, Confirming Relationship Milestone

    Spanish football sensation Lamine Yamal and his partner, content creator Inés García, have taken a significant step in their relationship by adopting two puppies together. The couple made the announcement via Instagram stories on Friday, September 11, effectively putting to rest recent speculation about a potential breakup.

    Public Appearances Fuel Relationship Timeline

    The pair have been increasingly visible together in recent months. García accompanied Yamal to several matches during the World Cup and attended the Barcelona winger’s birthday celebration. Most recently, they turned heads with their elevated style at the 5th AFE Awards Gala, presenting a united front amid swirling rumors.

    Instagram Reveal: “Officially” Expanding the Family

    The confirmation arrived through a series of intimate social media posts. The first image, originally uploaded by Yamal, shows the footballer cradling one puppy while García holds the other, sharing a kiss. Yamal wore a white long-sleeved T-shirt, black knee-length shorts, white socks, and sneakers. García opted for a loose white tank top, jeans, and sandals.

    García reposted the image with a caption featuring dog, heart, and excited-face emojis, alongside the single word: “Officially”.

    A subsequent story posted by the influencer featured Yamal with both puppies, distinguished by a blue heart and a pink heart hovering above each dog. Based on their cream-colored coats, wavy fur, and floppy ears, the new additions appear to be Golden Retriever puppies.

    Relationship Moves Forward Amid Public Spotlight

    With the adoption of their two dogs, Yamal and García signal a deepening commitment while navigating the intense public scrutiny that accompanies one of world football’s brightest young stars. The move marks a personal milestone for the teenager, balancing a meteoric professional rise with a stabilizing personal life.

  • Raphinha Leads the Line and Sets Example as Barca Enjoys Hot Start

    Raphinha Leads the Line and Sets Example as Barca Enjoys Hot Start

    Barcelona’s Spotify Camp Nou pitch resembled a slip and slide early on Wednesday as Feyenoord defenders Jeremiah St. Juste and Charles Vanhoutte went sliding across the area just three minutes into the UEFA Champions League fixture. Torrential rain poured down as Barça forward Raphinha feigned to shoot on his right foot before cutting inside on his left. With St. Juste and Vanhoutte exiting the picture, Raphinha slotted home.

    The night did not improve for the Dutch side. The rain soon stopped, but the goals kept coming. Raphinha added a second, while Karim Adeyemi, Lamine Yamal, and Gabriel Jesus — scoring for the first time since his summer move from Arsenal — all found the net. Sem Steijn managed a consolation for Feyenoord, but Barcelona ran out convincing 5-1 winners.

    Historic Start Fuels European Ambitions

    It is already the fourth time this season Barcelona have netted five goals in a match, having played just five games. Though it is early days, there are reasons for the Spanish champions to believe this represents their best chance in a while to end a 12-year wait for a Champions League title by the time June’s final arrives in Madrid.

    After back-to-back LaLiga titles under coach Hansi Flick, winning a sixth European Cup has become an increasing obsession in Catalonia. Leading the charge in more ways than one is the man who sent St. Juste and Vanhoutte flying: Raphinha.

    Raphinha’s Evolution: Captain and Striker

    The Brazil international now leads the team as newly appointed club captain — “Raphinha capitán” chants rang around the stadium when he was substituted late on — and he unexpectedly leads the line as the side’s striker.

    Sporting director Deco had hoped to bring in Julián Álvarez to replace the outgoing Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres this summer. After Atlético Madrid refused to negotiate for the Argentina forward, Barcelona turned to Jesus as a low-cost squad option. Meanwhile, Raphinha, signed as a right winger from Leeds United in 2022 and converted to a left winger, has excelled as a No. 9. Perhaps benefiting from the break provided by Brazil’s early exit from the FIFA World Cup, he has scored eight goals this season, netting in each of Barcelona’s five games to date — a feat not achieved since 1950, when César Rodríguez managed it, according to Pedro Martin.

    In Europe he is particularly effective. Raphinha now has 28 goal contributions in the past three Champions League seasons; only Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane (29) has been directly involved in more goals in that span.

    Work Rate Sets the Standard

    But it’s not just his numbers. It’s his work rate. Raphinha hunts down every defender, relentlessly tracks back, and leads by example. He sets the standards for the other forwards, and they — including Yamal, who in different circumstances or other teams may be afforded some luxuries — follow.

    “If you don’t run, you don’t win,” Yamal said before the Feyenoord game.

    That attitude strangled Feyenoord in the early stages on Wednesday. Flick showcased Barcelona’s depth by making five changes — Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, João Cancelo, Dani Olmo, and Adeyemi replaced Eric García, Gerard Martín, Xavi Espart, Fermín López, and Anthony Gordon — and just three minutes were on the clock when Raphinha, set up by Yamal, opened the scoring. The pressing did not let up; the Eredivisie side was not allowed to breathe.

    Clinical Finishing and Record-Chasing Yamal

    Adeyemi added a stunning second from outside the box — his second for the club since his summer move from Borussia Dortmund — and Raphinha, whose center-forward run was superbly picked out by Pedri, made it three before the hour mark.

    Nacho Ferri had a goal ruled out for offside shortly after for the visitors, but the scoring was not done. Barcelona remained hungry.

    Yamal added the fourth via a slightly fortunate free kick. It was his 12th goal in the Champions League, moving him one shy of Kylian Mbappé’s record of 13 in the competition as a teenager — a record that will soon likely fall into Yamal’s hands.

    After scoring, he peeled away to celebrate with Raphinha, who had just been taken off, by the dugout.

    “I know how Lamine can dip out of a game when things aren’t going well,” Raphinha said of the celebration. “I had tried to encourage him. I told him he was going to score to make sure he wouldn’t lose his focus.

    “In the end, he got his goal. I was really happy for him. He needed that goal. That’s how you build a winning team — when you’re happy for one another.”

    Steijn pulled one back for Feyenoord, but Barcelona went again. Yamal turned provider this time, delivering a pinpoint cross for Jesus to glance home. It was Yamal’s 101st goal contribution for Barcelona — he’s still 19 — and Barcelona’s 22nd goal of the season already. Not since 1950-51 (23) have they scored more at this point in a campaign.

    Defensive Questions Remain Amid Attacking Brilliance

    The argument will be that bigger tests await. Rodri, signed from Manchester City, has improved how they control games, but how much can he improve them defensively after no new defender arrived this summer other than attacking full back Cancelo?

    Those questions are for another day, perhaps. It’s easy to see why Barcelona might get carried away with the way Flick has his side purring in attack.

    “In a season as long as this, there are many ups and downs,” Raphinha added. “Starting the season like this obviously gives us a lot of confidence. Now we have to continue like this. We have to hope the downs are as small as possible.”

    Curiously, Raphinha was one of the big absentees when the 30-player shortlist was announced for the Ballon d’Or on Monday. Carry on like this and he won’t be missing next year.

    “I’m not talking about the Ballon d’Or,” he said. “I’m only talking about Barcelona. We’re having a spectacular season.”

  • Barcelona Faces Champions League Debut With Three Squad Absences

    Barcelona Faces Champions League Debut With Three Squad Absences

    Barcelona has announced its 23-man squad for the Champions League opener against Feyenoord, marking the club’s first step in a competition it has not won since the Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suarez era delivered the trophy in 2015.

    Eric Garcia the only change from Valencia win

    The list is nearly identical to the side that secured a 0-5 victory in Valencia days ago, with one expected absence. Eric Garcia misses the match through suspension after his red card in the second leg of last season’s quarter-finals at the Metropolitano. The defender also suffered a broken nose in a collision with teammate Rodri at Mestalla, forcing his withdrawal before half-time.

    De Jong and Roony Bardghji remain sidelined

    The other two unavailable squad members are Frenkie de Jong and Roony Bardghji, both nursing injuries sustained during the summer.

    Addressing De Jong’s condition in the pre-match press conference, head coach Hansi Flick stated: “Es un jugador que tiene una enorme calidad y estoy muy contento de que esté con nosotros, se tiene que recuperar y trabajar, todo va como estaba previsto y espero que lo podamos ver en unas semanas, veremos qué pasa después del parón de selecciones”, dijo el entrenador.

    Full Barcelona squad for Champions League debut

    The complete list of players called up for the UEFA Champions League phase opener:

    • Joan Garcia
    • Joan Cancelo
    • Alejandro Balde
    • Brian Fariñas
    • Pau Cubarsi
    • Gavi
    • Fermin Lopez
    • Pedri
    • Gabriel Jesus
    • Lamine Yamal
    • Raphinha
    • Xavi Espart
    • Wojciech Szczesny
    • Karim Adeyemi
    • Andreas Christensen
    • Rodri
    • Anthony Gordon
    • Gerard Martin
    • Dani Olmo
    • Marc Bernal
    • Jules Kounde
    • Dominik Livakovic
    • Hamza Abdelkarim

    Feyenoord arrive in strong form

    Barcelona will face a Feyenoord side unbeaten this season as they target their first three points in the new league phase. While the Catalans have won all four of their domestic fixtures, the Dutch outfit boasts three victories and two draws in the opening five Eredivisie rounds. Extending the run to include last campaign, Gio van Bronckhorst’s team—a familiar opponent from previous European encounters—remains undefeated in 19 consecutive matches.

  • Lamine Yamal sends message to Mbappé: “I won’t beg for the Ballon d’Or”

    Lamine Yamal sends message to Mbappé: “I won’t beg for the Ballon d’Or”

    Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal faced the media ahead of the Champions League clash against Feyenoord, delivering a wide-ranging press conference that touched on his happiness, captaincy, Ballon d’Or prospects, and the team’s ambitions for the season.

    Champions League the ‘big objective’

    Yamal made clear that Europe’s premier club competition remains the primary target for Hansi Flick’s side.

    “It’s the big objective, there’s no greater motivation. We’re all motivated. We have it in our heads. It’s the most special tournament. This year it could be with the players who have arrived, Gordon, Rodri, Adeyemi, Joao…”

    The teenager emphasized the collective drive within the squad, reiterating: “The Champions League is the big objective, we are all very motivated.”

    Pride in the captain’s armband

    At just 19, Yamal has already worn the captain’s armband for Barcelona, a responsibility he embraces.

    “It is a source of pride to be captain of Barça at 19 years old. I am grateful to my teammates for choosing me. I am 19 years old but I want to live up to it. I am happy. It makes me feel responsible. I will give my best for the team.”

    He also praised the leadership group around him: “Rapha is an incredible captain, and Eric, Pedri… I learn from them to always seek what is best for the team.”

    Ballon d’Or talk and campaign stance

    Asked about individual accolades, Yamal acknowledged his chances but refused to engage in self-promotion.

    “It doesn’t depend on me, it depends on you. The work with Barça and the national team has been incredible. I have options, I had a great year. But we’ll see.”

    On the idea of a media campaign for the award, he was blunt: “I don’t think I need to campaign. Everyone can think whatever they want. I’m proud of what I’ve done and I can’t ask for more. It’s your job, I won’t beg for anything.” He later repeated the sentiment: “I don’t think I need to campaign to win the Ballon d’Or.”

    Pressing, growth, and squad competition

    Yamal addressed the tactical demands of the modern game, citing Paris Saint-Germain as an example of collective pressing.

    “In title-winning teams, like PSG, everyone presses. You have to run, no matter who you are. If you don’t run, you lose.”

    On personal development, he said: “Collectively, titles and the Champions League. And individually, improve. I’m young. That’s my objective.”

    Regarding competition for places and the possibility of being a substitute, Yamal showed maturity: “It doesn’t scare me, there are great players. I’m prepared to be a substitute. It doesn’t scare me.” He later reinforced: “I’m not afraid of being a substitute.”

    On his physical growth, he added: “I think that when you grow up, you don’t realize it. I’m a ‘kid’ and I’m growing, but I’m not two meters tall. I’m shorter than Cubarsí or Bernal. I’m like everyone else.”

    Relationship with teammates and rivals

    Yamal spoke warmly of his connections within the squad, particularly Fermín López and Dani Olmo: “They are tremendous players, I feel comfortable with them and get on great with them, although they are different.”

    Asked about Real Madrid’s recent trophy drought, he deflected: “If they have gone two years without winning, that is their problem. We are happy with the refereeing. That’s a question for them. I see them as happy.” He earlier framed it similarly: “If Real Madrid have gone two years without winning, that’s their problem; I see them as happy.”

    ‘Vacation of my life’ and happiness

    Addressing speculation about his mood during the off-season, Yamal was unequivocal.

    “I’m very happy, I don’t know why there was so much talk. I had the vacation of my life. At no point have I been happier than I am now.”

    He summarized the feeling again: “I had the vacation of my life, I’ve never been happier.”

    Dembélé and the Ballon d’Or debate

    On Ousmane Dembélé declining to name a Ballon d’Or favorite, Yamal downplayed any tension.

    “He’s a friend of Kylian’s… I don’t care. I’m very happy with the year I’ve had. When I’ve faced both of them, I’ve won. I get along very well with Ousmane. Everyone has seen my year, if he hasn’t…”

    He reiterated: “Dembélé is a friend of Kylian… I am very happy with the year I have had.”

    Grounded by family and respect for Xavi

    Yamal credited his environment for keeping him level-headed: “I’m in a locker room with people who have done more than me. Then I’m with my family, who keep my feet on the ground.”

    He also had kind words for his former coach: “He is a great coach. I have great affection for him, I hope things go well for him, except against Spain.”

  • Lamine Yamal and Raphinha Score Twice as Barcelona Thrash Opponents 5-0

    Lamine Yamal and Raphinha Score Twice as Barcelona Thrash Opponents 5-0

    Lamine Yamal and Raphinha both scored twice as Barcelona defeated Rayo Vallecano 5-2 in La Liga.

    Source: www.bbc.co.uk