World Cup winner and Ballon d’Or recipient Lothar Matthaus has revealed his personal choice ahead of tonight’s Paris ceremony while stressing that trophies often determine the final outcome but style and influence remain equally important.
The former Germany captain, who lifted the 1990 World Cup and received the Ballon d’Or the same year, shared his opinion in a column for Sky Sport.
He explained that Dembele’s record-breaking campaign, including 35 goals and a historic Champions League triumph cannot be ignored, however, he also emphasized that Yamal’s unpredictable brilliance and ability to change matches makes him stand out.
“Titles often tipped the scales in this election – especially when it was close. I’m thinking of Fabio Cannavaro, who lifted the trophy with Italy in 2006 after winning the World Cup. That’s a good thing, because I don’t see the award purely as an individual achievement,” he wrote
Dembele spearheaded PSG’s season, delivering a domestic clean sweep alongside their first-ever Champions League crown.
In contrast, Yamal registered 18 goals in 55 appearances and guided Barcelona toward a La Liga , Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
More: Lamine Yamal stats 2024-25: Goals, assists, trophies of Barcelona star in Ballon d’Or contention
“But Yamal also won three titles with FC Barcelona. He would even get my vote if I were eligible to vote, because he brings something fresh and unpredictable to the game.
Of course, it’s possible that his teammate Raphinha, who also had a sensational season, will steal some of his votes.”
“That’s perfectly normal, and probably also the reason why no German player won the Ballon d’Or in 2014, despite the World Cup. But Germany excelled as a collective back then, and there was no single primary reason for their success. Regardless of whether Dembele or Yamal succeed Rodri, both would be worthy winners.”
The Ballon d’Or ceremony will start 9:00 PM in Paris (CEST), 8:00 PM BST, 3:00 PM ET.
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