At just 18 years old, Yamal is already among the frontrunners for the 2025 Ballon d'Or after a breakout season for both club and country. Speaking on Jose Ramon de la Morena's podcast Resonancia de Corazon, the teenager expressed unwavering confidence in his abilities and made it clear that his ambitions go far beyond a single moment of glory.

"I told my friends, I don't dream of having one Ballon d'Or, I dream of having many. I believe I'm a player who has the ability to do it - and if I don't, it's because I haven't done things the right way or I haven't wanted it enough. So I dream of having many, and the day it comes, I'll be very happy. But I'll want to keep winning more."

Yamal's performances in the 2024/25 season under Hansi Flick saw him become a central figure in Barcelona's treble-winning campaign - lifting La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. He recorded 18 goals and 25 assists across all competitions, a remarkable output for a player of any age, let alone one still in his teens.

Should he claim the 2025 Ballon d'Or, Yamal would become the youngest recipient in history, surpassing the records of legends before him. He has openly acknowledged his desire to follow in the footsteps of Lionel Messi, who won the award a record eight times while at Barcelona.

However, competition is stiff. Former Barca teammate Ousmane Dembele, now at PSG, is considered a top contender after leading the French club to its first-ever UEFA Champions League title and a historic treble. Other names like Mohamed Salah, Raphinha, and Vitinha are also in the mix, making this year's race especially intense.

Even so, Yamal remains focused on long-term success rather than a single season.

"I just want to keep winning," he said. "I want to win with my club and with the national team."

With the Ballon d'Or ceremony set for September 22 at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, Yamal will return to action for Barcelona following the international break, facing Valencia in La Liga. Regardless of the outcome, his mindset, talent, and early achievements have many believing he is destined to become one of the sport's defining figures for years to come.

Nico Williams explains decision to stay at Athletic Club