Monchi

Spanish sports media are debating Lamine Yamal as a serious contender for the Ballon d'Or. Sevilla sporting director Monchi publicly backed the Barcelona teenager, saying "he deserves it", while Mundo Deportivo argued the young winger has built a strong case for the award. Yamal himself shrugged off criticism surrounding his form and profile, saying "hate me or love me, I don't care". The discussion comes as speculation builds over this year's frontrunners.