Latest news at Barcelona. Hansi Flick backed Lamine Yamal in the race for the Ballon d'Or during the press conference ahead of Barcelona vs. Racing de Santander this Wednesday. The German coach avoided engaging in a personal campaign but made it clear that he would support the winger if he believes his arguments justify the award.
Hansi Flick changes his tone on the Ballon d'Or
Flick was asked about Yamal's statements, who after scoring a brace against Levante claimed that he and Kylian Mbappé are the two best players in the world and that he deserves the Ballon d'Or. The winger has 4 goals in LaLiga 2026/27 after the first five matchdays.
The response from the German coach was more direct than his previous one. On the 8th of September, Flick had stated that the Ballon d'Or was not his concern and that several players could win it; now he explained that if Yamal believes he deserves the recognition, he shares that assessment, although he admitted to being tired of all the debate surrounding the individual accolade.
The change in stance comes with less than two weeks remaining until the voting deadline. Journalists involved in the process have until September 28 to submit their votes, and the winner will be announced on October 26th in London.
💎 Flick reacts to LAMINE YAMAL's words on the Ballon d'Or: "He is being honest and has self-confidence. I will support him, of course" pic.twitter.com/QzcomV2UaR
— Carrusel Deportivo (@carrusel) September 15, 2026
Barcelona endorses Lamine Yamal's candidacy
Flick's position aligns with that of Barcelona in the individual race. Yamal is one of three club players nominated for the Ballon d'Or, alongside Rodri and Pau Cubarsí.
The winger enters the voting after winning the 2026 World Cup with Spain and the 2025/26 LaLiga title with Barcelona. Additionally, he was named the best player in LaLiga the previous season, arguments that the player himself used to defend his candidacy.
His start to the season has further showcased Yamal's abilities. He scored twice in the 4-2 victory against Levante, and Barcelona maintains a perfect record of five wins in five games, holding a three-point lead over Real Madrid.
Flick had previously highlighted before the match against Feyenoord that Yamal can influence games on his own and that his daily evolution is key to his performance. The German maintains that assessment now that the player has openly discussed his chances for the Ballon d'Or.
The next test will come this Wednesday, September 16th, when Barcelona hosts Racing de Santander. Yamal will have another opportunity to present sporting arguments while the voting period remains open, and Hansi Flick has made it clear that he will support his Ballon d'Or candidacy until the process concludes.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Flick se harta del Balón de Oro