Mikel Oyarzabal has been backed as the deserving winner of the Ballon d’Or by El Chiringuito presenter Josep Pedrerol, despite the Real Sociedad forward not appearing on the award’s official shortlist.
Pedrerol made his choice in a message posted on X after Oyarzabal scored the decisive goal in Spain’s 3-2 victory over England at Wembley.
The Spanish television presenter openly declared that Oyarzabal should claim football’s most prestigious individual prize, highlighting his admiration for the Basque forward. Pedrerol has previously praised Oyarzabal on several occasions.
The choice is particularly notable because the forward was not included among the Ballon d’Or nominees. The award has been the subject of considerable debate, with Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe among the leading names being discussed. Raphinha and Pedri, who also attracted attention during the season, were absent from the list.
Oyarzabal began Spain’s match against England on the substitutes’ bench and was introduced by the manager in the 54th minute, with his side trailing 2-1.
His arrival helped alter the course of the match. Alex Baena subsequently scored Spain’s equaliser before Oyarzabal produced the defining moment late in the game, taking his opportunity to make it 3-2.
The goal completed Spain’s comeback in front of the English crowd at Wembley and restored Oyarzabal to the conversation surrounding the season’s outstanding players.
Pedrerol went further than simply highlighting the forward’s decisive contribution in London, arguing that Oyarzabal deserves the Ballon d’Or ahead of the recognised contenders, even though he is not among the official nominees.