Why El Clasico could be the defining moment in Barcelona prodigy’s Ballon d’Or ambitions | OneFootball

Today’s El Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid is not just about bragging rights or La Liga points, as it could have a major impact on Lamine Yamal’s hopes of winning the Ballon d’Or, as per a report from SPORT.

Despite Barcelona’s exit from the Champions League, Yamal impressed many with his performance in the second leg at San Siro. The 17-year-old was one of Barça’s best players that night, coming close to scoring multiple times.

He hit the post and gave Inter’s defence plenty of problems, but the result did not go in Barça’s favour. This loss dealt a big blow to Yamal’s Ballon d’Or chances, as he missed out on a shot at the Champions League title.

Adding to that, Paris Saint-Germain’s progression to the final has placed Ousmane Dembele in pole position for the award. The former Barcelona winger is now considered the favourite to take home the Ballon d’Or after his strong season in France.

El Clasico and Nations League are key

Yamal still has two big chances to turn things around. First is today’s El Clasico, as a strong showing against Real Madrid could boost his case.

Second is the UEFA Nations League Final Four, where Spain will face France on June 5. Yamal was key in helping Spain reach this stage after a standout performance against the Netherlands.

Lamine Yamal cannot be ruled out of Ballon ‘Or race. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

If Spain win the tournament, it would mark their second straight title, another big plus on Yamal’s resume.

Yamal has already dismantled Real Madrid

Meanwhile, it is to be noted that Yamal has already made his mark against Real Madrid. He scored a stunner in the 4-0 win at the Bernabeu, scored in the Spanish Super Cup final, and provided two assists in the Copa del Rey final.

Three matches, three wins, and two titles. He has proven he can deliver in the biggest games.

If Barcelona manage a win or even a draw today, they will be within touching distance of the La Liga crown, with only three matches left. That would take Yamal’s potential title count to four this season.

While Dembele remains the frontrunner in the Ballon d’Or race, especially if PSG win the treble, things could shift.

Ligue 1 doesn’t carry the same weight as the Premier League or La Liga. This means if Inter lift the Champions League, Lautaro Martinez could sneak into the conversation.

But if Yamal shines in El Clasico and the Nations League, he might just pull off the unthinkable.