The Spanish forward of Barcelona, Lamine Yamal, was awarded the Kopa Trophy for the best young player of the past season during the 2024 Ballon d'Or gala. At 17 years old, the Catalan attacker prevailed over four other finalists thanks to his outstanding performance with the blaugrana team and his contribution to the Spanish national team in winning the Euro Cup.
"I want to thank my mother, my father, and my grandmother, who have always helped me, and also the staff, the players, the national team, coach Luis -de la Fuente-, Xavi, who was with me, and Hansi -Flick- now,” Yamal expressed upon receiving the award. He even recalled the result of the last Clásico at the Santiago Bernabéu by dedicating his achievement to those who supported him.
This recognition places Lamine Yamal as the best young player in the world, succeeding the British Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid, the winner in 2023, and following in the footsteps of his teammates Pedri and Gavi. "It is a pride to receive this award, thanks to France Football for the recognition," added the footballer. It is worth noting that the Kopa Trophy jury is composed of former Ballon d'Or winners.
