He doesn't deserve it - Barcelona coach motivates Yamal after Ballon d’or miss

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has revealed that Lamine Yamal responded positively to finishing runner-up and remains focused on improving.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele won the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Dembele’s award followed a remarkable campaign in which he scored 35 goals and inspired PSG to an unprecedented clean sweep of trophies, including their maiden UEFA Champions League under coach Luis Enrique.

Yamal just 18 years old, was widely tipped to challenge Dembele for the top honour but ultimately finished second.

Despite the disappointment, Yamal secured the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best young player in the world, for the second consecutive year.

The Spain international’s performances for both club and country have already marked him as one of football’s brightest prospects, with many tipping him to lift the Ballon d’Or in the near future.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Flick revealed that Yamal has responded positively to finishing runner-up and remains focused on improving.

He said, “I spoke to him yesterday. He’s doing well, motivated for the coming years. And there’s Dembele, who deserved it. He accepted it well and is motivated to prove his worth and, perhaps, have a chance for next season. He’s very close to returning. And from what I’ve seen, he seems to be doing well.”

Yamal, who recently returned from injury, is expected to play an important role in Barcelona’s upcoming matches as they look to maintain momentum in both La Liga and the Champions League.