Ballon d’Or 2026: Barça abandons Rodri in the race for the title

FC Barcelona has reportedly made its choice for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Rodri revealed that the Catalan club has decided to support Lamine Yamal over him for the award. Both players are among the 30 candidates selected for this edition. Lamine Yamal hopes to win the prestigious trophy for the first time, while Rodri won it in 2024, while he was still playing for Manchester City. When asked about Barça’s position, the 30-year-old midfielder confirmed that the club has taken a stand in favor of his young teammate. “ Ballon d’Or? The club has chosen to support Lamine ,” said Rodri.

The former Manchester City player also believes that this decision is perfectly understandable given Yamal’s season. “ They say he is the player who deserves this award the most, and that is entirely legitimate ,” he added. Despite this direct competition, Rodri does not hide his wish to see a Spaniard succeed in the Ballon d’Or rankings. “ I hope a Spanish player will win ,” he concluded.