France international defender, Jules Kounde, has backed Barcelona teammate, Lamine Yamal, over compatriots Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
The Ballon d’Or ceremony, organised by France Football, is scheduled for September 22 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, with a 30-man shortlist already unveiled. Both Mbappe and Dembele, who enjoyed trophy-laden seasons, are widely considered among the frontrunners.
However, Kounde, who just extended his contract with Barcelona until June 30, 2030, believes the spotlight should fall on Yamal, the 18-year-old Spanish talisman who shone for Barca last season.
Speaking to Le10Sport, the French defender said: “You put me in a delicate situation, because there is also Dembele in the running.
“But, what I would say is that I think Lamine Yamal deserves it. I have a very good relationship with him. He’s a team player, he works a lot for the team. He needs energy to attack, and I understand him perfectly.”
Kounde also opened up on his close relationship with the teenager, praising Yamal’s impact and selflessness on the pitch.
Note that Yamal scored 18 goals and provided 25 assists in 55 appearances across all competitions last season.
His contributions proved decisive as Barcelona secured a domestic treble, winning LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España.
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