Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has revealed his preference for teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to win the 2025 Ballon d'Or award ahead of Paris Saint-Germain star Ousmane Dembele.
Speaking at the Viva Technology event, Pique, who has shared the dressing room with both forwards, expressed his admiration for the two players but leaned toward his former club's current star.
"I had the opportunity to share a dressing room with Ousmane and Lamine. They're both incredible people. I love them both very much," Pique stated. "I would prefer Lamine because he's now at Barca and also in the King's League. He has a team, so I would like Lamine to win it."
The Barcelona legend added, "But I also really like Ousmane, and if he wins it in the end, I'll be happy for him."
Impressive Seasons for Both Contenders
Yamal has enjoyed a breakthrough season with Barcelona, contributing 21 goals and an impressive 25 assists in 62 appearances across all competitions. The teenage prodigy played a crucial role in Barcelona's domestic treble, helping the Catalan giants secure LaLiga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de Espana titles ahead of rivals Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, Dembele has had his most productive season to date at Paris Saint-Germain, netting 33 goals in 49 matches. His outstanding performances earned him the Champions League Player of the Season award as PSG clinched a historic treble of their own.
The 2025 Ballon d'Or race is heating up with both players making strong cases for football's most prestigious individual honor. The award's organizers are expected to announce the nominees in the coming months.
Pique's endorsement adds another interesting dimension to the ongoing debate about who deserves the coveted golden ball this year.
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