Barcelona to back Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or bid, reports say

Barcelona hope Lamine Yamal will win the Ballon d’Or this year and are preparing to actively promote the winger’s candidacy, according to Diario AS.

The 19-year-old is regarded as one of the leading contenders for the award after an outstanding season with the Catalan club. He also won the World Cup with Spain.

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi and midfielder Rodri Hernandez are also included among the nominees representing the club.

Yamal finished second in last year’s Ballon d’Or voting, behind only Ousmane Dembele.

The award ceremony will take place on 26 October.