French defender Jules Kounde has surprised many by choosing his Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal as his favourite to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or, instead of fellow countrymen Kylian Mbappe or Ousmane Dembele.
The Ballon d’Or gala is set for September 22 in Paris at the Théâtre du Châtelet. While Mbappe and Dembele are included in the 30-man shortlist announced by France Football, Kounde feels Yamal should take the top prize.
Speaking to *Le10Sport*, Kounde admitted:
“Lamine Yamal for the Ballon d’Or? You’re putting me in a tricky spot, but I think he deserves it.”
The defender also praised his close relationship with Yamal, highlighting how much the teenager has contributed to the team.
Only 18 years old, Yamal enjoyed a standout season with Barcelona, recording 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 matches. His impact was key as the Catalan club went on to win LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.