Leão made the remarks in an interview with Brazilian broadcaster TNT Sports BR on Tuesday, praising Yamal’s ability, character and growing influence in football.
“I hope Lamine Yamal wins the Ballon d’Or and big trophies with Barça,” Leão said, describing the 19-year-old as one of the best players in the world.
The Portuguese winger also praised Yamal’s humility and said he appreciated him both as a footballer and as a person. He added that the youngster was surrounded by quality teammates at an extraordinary club.
Leão’s comments followed Barcelona’s 4-1 victory over Galatasaray in Istanbul, where Yamal continued to attract attention for his performances.
At just 19, Yamal has established himself as one of football’s most prominent young talents, earning widespread recognition for his creativity, technical ability and contribution to Barcelona’s ambitions.
Leão’s endorsement adds to the growing discussion surrounding Yamal’s prospects of winning the Ballon d’Or, one of football’s most prestigious individual awards.
While the award recognises individual excellence, Leão’s comments also highlight the importance of team success, with the winger expressing hope that Yamal will combine personal honours with major trophies for Barcelona.
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AC Milan winger Rafael Leão has praised Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, saying he hopes the teenager wins the Ballon d’Or and helps the Catalan club secure major trophies. Galatasaray winger Rafael Leão has expressed his support for Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal, saying he hopes the Spanish teenager wins the Ballon d’Or and helps the Catalan club secure major...
Key takeaways
- AC Milan winger Rafael Leão has praised Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, saying he hopes the teenager wins the Ballon d’Or and helps the Catalan club secure major trophies.
- Galatasaray winger Rafael Leão has expressed his support for Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal, saying he hopes the Spanish teenager wins the Ballon d’Or and helps the Catalan club secure major trophies.Leão made the remarks in an interview with Brazilian broadcaster TNT Sports BR on Tuesday, praising Yamal’s ability, character and growing influence in football.“I hope Lamine Yamal wins the Ballon d’Or and big trophies with Barça,” Leão said, describing the 19-year-old as one of the best players in the world.The Portuguese winger also praised Yamal’s humility and said he appreciated him both as a footballer and as a person.
- He added that the youngster was surrounded by quality teammates at an extraordinary club.Leão’s comments followed Barcelona’s 4-1 victory over Galatasaray in Istanbul, where Yamal continued to attract attention for his performances.At just 19, Yamal has established himself as one of football’s most prominent young talents, earning widespread recognition for his creativity, technical ability and contribution to Barcelona’s ambitions.Leão’s endorsement adds to the growing discussion surrounding Yamal’s prospects of winning the Ballon d’Or, one of football’s most prestigious individual awards.While the award recognises individual excellence, Leão’s comments also highlight the importance of team success, with the winger expressing hope that Yamal will combine personal honours with major trophies for Barcelona.
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AC Milan winger Rafael Leão has praised Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, saying he hopes the teenager wins the Ballon d’Or and helps the Catalan club secure major trophies. Galatasaray winger Rafael Leão has expressed his support for Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal, saying he hopes the Spanish teenager wins the Ballon d’Or and helps the Catalan club secure major...
Who published this story?
Glow 99.1 FM published this story with GlowRy Atuah listed as author.
When was it published?
October 14, 2026
