Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal says he sees few players capable of matching his level over the next decade, as the Spain international continues to make a strong case for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
Yamal has enjoyed major success at an early age, collecting international and domestic honours while establishing himself as one of Barcelona’s leading players.
The 19-year-old has won the European Championship and the 2026 World Cup with Spain, while also helping Barcelona to multiple La Liga titles.
His performances have placed him among the leading contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. The award is expected to be decided between Yamal and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe, with the winner due to be announced at the end of October.
Yamal, however, says his rapid development means he believes there is still considerably more to come from him.
Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, the Barcelona forward reflected on how quickly he has progressed and adapted at the highest level.
“There is something that distinguishes me, which is that I went through the stages of maturation and development very quickly. I have already adapted beyond what is required.”
Yamal acknowledged that his performances have not always reached the level he expects from himself, despite his achievements at club and international level.
“There are games where I feel I could have performed much better. I am calm because I know I can offer more,”
The Barcelona star was then asked which player he believes could emerge as his main rival over the next 10 years.
His response reflected the confidence he has in his own ability and potential.
“It is very difficult to find someone who says he is at my level,”
The comments underline Yamal’s belief that his development has progressed at an exceptional pace. Having already adapted to senior football at a young age, he says he remains confident that he can improve further.
Yamal’s rise has also coincided with his growing prominence in the Ballon d’Or race. His performances for Barcelona and Spain have put him among the names being considered for the 2026 award, with Mbappe also competing for the individual honour.
Despite the attention surrounding his achievements, Yamal insists that he is not satisfied with his current level. His admission that he can perform better in some matches suggests the Barcelona forward believes his development is still ongoing.
For now, his focus remains on continuing that progression, while his comments about potential rivals underline the confidence that has accompanied his rapid rise.
