Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal became the youngest player ever to win the Kopa Trophy at Monday’s Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.
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Yamal became the youngest Kopa winner
The Kopa Trophy recognizes the best under-21 player in men’s football, and Yamal claimed the award at just 17 years old.
Yamal helped Spain win the EURO 2024 last summer, and he is currently enjoying a breakout season with Barca under Hansi Flick.
He also finished eighth in the voting for the men’s Ballon d’Or, while his Spain teammate, Manchester City midfielder Rodri, received the top individual honor.
“It is an honour to win this award,” Yamal said. “I want to thank my mum, dad and my grandma, who have always supported me. “I also want to thank my teammates, all the staff at Barça and with the Spanish national team, and my coaches, Luis de la Fuente.”
Next trophy: Ballon d’Or
The Kopa Trophy, launched in 2018, has previously been won by players like Kylian Mbappé and Matthijs de Ligt.
It marks the third time in four years that a Barcelona player has claimed the award, with Pedri winning in 2021 and Gavi in 2022.
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham received the Kopa Trophy last year.
Before Yamal’s victory, the Kopa Trophy was awarded to former Brazil international Ronaldo, who won it at the age of 21.
Yamal said he hopes to capture the Ballon d’Or award in the future.
“They told me [I could one day break Ronaldo’s record] and it would be fantastic to have a career like his,” Yamal added. “I hope I can win the Ballon d’Or as soon as possible, it’s an objective for all players, but the most important thing is to enjoy yourself. When you enjoy yourself, everything comes off better.”
In 14 appearances in all competitions this season, Yamal has registered six goals and seven assists.
