Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t hesitate when naming who should win the Ballon d’Or out of Yamal & Dembele

Yamal and Dembele faced off in the UEFA Nations League semi-final between Spain and France, where Yamal stole the spotlight with a brace in Spain’s thrilling victory.

After playing a key role in Spain’s recent international success, another strong performance could further strengthen Yamal’s case to become the youngest-ever Ballon d’Or winner.

The 17-year-old sensation was instrumental in Barcelona’s league and cup victories, contributing numerous goals and assists throughout the season.

Meanwhile, Dembele remains a strong contender after enjoying the best campaign of his career, scoring consistently and helping Paris Saint-Germain secure a major European title.

Ronaldo, a multiple-time Ballon d’Or winner, has now weighed in on the debate, outlining his personal criteria for selecting the rightful recipient of football’s most prestigious individual honor.

Speaking in a press conference ahead of the Nations League final between Portugal and Spain, Ronaldo said: “The individual awards have lost some consensus; I can’t say anything about who should win. In my opinion, those who stand out and win the Champions League should win.

“But there is no consensus. I don’t believe much in individual awards because I know what goes on behind the scenes. Lamine could win, like Dembele or Vitinha, other emerging players… But individual awards are irrelevant.”

The showdown at the Allianz Arena marks the first time Ronaldo will face Lamine Yamal, who is 23 years his junior and was only a year old when Ronaldo claimed his first Ballon d’Or.

Reflecting on his own rise to stardom at Manchester United, Ronaldo advised the media to avoid placing excessive expectations on Yamal as he continues to develop.

“Lamine Yamal? I ask you to let the boy grow for the good of football,” he stated.

“Let him grow calmly and take the pressure off him. You can help him by leaving him alone because he doesn’t lack talent.”