Lamine Yamal may have fallen short in the Ballon d’Or race against Ousmane Dembele, but Barcelona president Joan Laporta insists the setback will only fuel his hunger to claim the award in future. The teenager made history with back-to-back Kopa Trophies, while Aitana Bonmati continued her dominance by lifting a third consecutive Women’s Ballon d’Or.
Barcelona shine on awards night despite Yamal’s Ballon d’Or setback
The Blaugrana's influence was once again felt on football’s biggest individual stage. While Dembele claimed the men’s Ballon d’Or, 18-year-old Yamal finished runner-up after already securing his second Kopa Trophy. Barca Femini midfielder Bonmati made history as just the third player to win the Golden Ball – alongside Lionel Messi and Michel Platini.
AdvertisementAFPLaporta praises Yamal and Bonmati’s dominance
Speaking after the ceremony, Laporta hailed the club’s success and expressed pride in Yamal’s historic achievement.
“Nobody has two Kopa awards, I’m sure Lamine will now fight for the Ballon d’Or," he said. "There were a lot of nerves, because in the theatre there were a few people shouting ‘Ousmane, Ousmane’ and a few of us from Barca were shouting ‘Lamine, Lamine’. I’m sure this will motivate Lamine even more.”
The Barca president was equally glowing in his praise for Bonmati, who marked another milestone in her career.
"I'm very happy for Aitana, when she comes on stage she gives an acknowledgment that moves you. I'm delighted with Aitana, she gave an exceptional speech, she touched on everything, family, club, equality, we know that these are reasons that motivate Aitana to continue improving."
Why this matters for Barcelona’s present and future
For Laporta, the night was not just about trophies but also a reminder of the club’s resilience. He took the opportunity to thank supporters, pointing out their role in Barca’s resurgence.
“I tell the fans to keep believing in Barca. Their patience with some things is admirable, and they never give up. We owe them everything," he concluded.
Yamal’s Ballon d’Or runner-up finish, combined with Raphinha’s fifth and Pedri’s 11th place, reinforced the impression that Barcelona are nurturing a new generation capable of dominating the world stage.
AFPWhat comes next for Barca and Yamal
Currently sidelined through injury, Yamal will be watching from the stands as Barcelona look to build on their 3-0 victory over Getafe. Flick’s side face Real Oviedo in midweek before taking on Real Sociedad at the weekend, with a Champions League showdown against PSG looming large.