Rafael Leão Backs Lamine Yamal to Win Ballon d’Or and Major Trophies

Rafael Leão has expressed his support for Lamine Yamal’s ambitions at Barcelona, revealing that he hopes the young winger will win the Ballon d’Or and lift major trophies with the Spanish club.

According to a post by Fabrizio Romano on X on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, the AC Milan forward shared his views about Yamal during an interview with TNT Sports Brasil.

Leão spoke highly of the Barcelona youngster, placing him among the best footballers in the world and making it clear that his admiration extends beyond what Yamal produces on the pitch.

“I hope Lamine Yamal wins the Ballon d’Or and big trophies with Barça,” Leão said.

The Portuguese forward also praised Yamal’s qualities as both a player and a person, highlighting the positive impression the youngster has made on him.

“He is among the best in the world, he’s someone I really appreciate as a player and person,” Leão added.

His comments reflect his admiration for Yamal’s footballing ability and personal qualities.

Rather than focusing solely on the winger’s performances, Leão also acknowledged the environment in which he is developing at Barcelona.

The AC Milan forward pointed to the quality of the players around Yamal and the stature of the club, describing Barcelona as an extraordinary institution.

“He’s surrounded by good players at an extraordinary club,” Leão told TNT Sports Brasil.

Leão’s remarks place the spotlight on Yamal’s potential to achieve both individual recognition and collective success.

Winning the Ballon d’Or would represent a major individual accomplishment, while securing important trophies with Barcelona would contribute to the club’s ambitions.

However, Leão expressed his hopes for Yamal’s future rather than predicting that these achievements are guaranteed.

His statement offers a clear endorsement of the Barcelona winger from another prominent footballer, with Leão recognising both his talent and the environment in which he currently plays.

For Yamal, the comments underline the admiration he receives from fellow professionals as he continues his career at Barcelona.