Barcelona’s brightest star, Lamine Yamal, needed to accept second place on the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, with the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris witnessing PSG’s Ousmane Dembele elevate the golden orb as a substitute. Whereas the Frenchman’s triumph had been anticipated following his extraordinary season and Champions League-winning exploits, the highlight was nonetheless very a lot on {the teenager} who ran him shut.
The night belonged to Dembele on the rostrum, however the true measure of character was proven after the curtain fell, when Barcelona’s prodigy lastly broke his silence. His phrases carried greater than a response—they provided a imaginative and prescient for the longer term.
The 2024-25 marketing campaign was one for the ages for Ousmane Dembele. Main Paris Saint-Germain to a historic first Champions League crown, the Frenchman amassed 35 objectives and 16 assists in all competitions, proving decisive within the largest moments, together with the ultimate in opposition to Inter.
His numbers have been staggering: 51 aim contributions in 53 matches. From January to Could alone, he led all gamers in Europe’s prime 5 leagues in aim involvement. PSG additionally swept the home scene with Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Trophee des Champions, finishing a clear sweep that left little doubt in voters’ minds.
Yamal, in the meantime, had his personal phenomenal season. At simply 18, he powered Barcelona to a historic home treble whereas registering 18 objectives and 25 assists. His artistry was simple, his maturity staggering. And but, the absence of Champions League silverware tilted the scales in opposition to him.
What did Yamal say?
After which got here the phrases everybody had been ready for. Hours after the gala, Yamal took to Instagram, sharing pictures along with his second Kopa Trophy alongside snapshots from the ceremony. “God’s plan is ideal.” his caption delivered an inspiring 10-word message that summed up his philosophy and dedication:” You must climb to get to the highest.”
It was the primary time the teen spoke publicly after lacking out on the Ballon d’Or. In the identical submit, he confirmed nothing however respect to the winner: “Blissful for the Kopa Trophy x2 and congratulations to Dembele for the award and his nice season.” The phrases resonated far past the Blaugrana’s fanbase. They spoke of humility in defeat, religion within the journey, and a aggressive fireplace that’s solely simply starting to burn.
