According to a report by GOAL on Friday, November 6, 2026, Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has tipped Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal to win as many as seven Ballon d'Or awards, describing the teenager as the closest player to Lionel Messi's extraordinary level.

Rashford, who previously spent time on loan at Barcelona, expressed his admiration for the 19-year-old during a meeting with supporters at Old Trafford's Ambassadors' Lounge.

The England international disclosed that he had personally spoken to Yamal before leaving the Spanish club, telling the youngster that his natural ability stood above the talented footballers he had played alongside during his career.

According to Rashford, he has rarely encountered a player of Yamal's age with comparable technical qualities and believes the Barcelona winger possesses the potential to achieve remarkable success.

The Manchester United forward also suggested that winning seven Ballon d'Or awards would not surprise him, considering the progress Yamal has already made at such a young age.

Yamal has already established himself among the leading players in world football, finishing eighth, third and second in previous Ballon d'Or rankings.

While praising the Barcelona sensation, Rashford also reserved special recognition for Messi, describing the Argentine as an extraordinary footballer whose complete ability would be extremely difficult to replicate.

He believes the former Barcelona captain represents a unique generation of talent and that football supporters might never witness another player with similar qualities during their lifetime.

Rashford also discussed the Ballon d'Or debate, backing England captain Harry Kane as a deserving winner of the latest award.

The United forward highlighted Kane's remarkable contributions in front of goal, including his goalscoring and creative numbers, and disclosed that he had personally sent the Bayern Munich striker a message congratulating him on his achievements.

Meanwhile, Rashford opened up about his decision to return to Manchester United after spells away from Old Trafford, including his loan moves to Barcelona and Aston Villa.

The 29-year-old explained that he did not want to continue playing against his boyhood club every season and instructed his representative to explore opportunities outside England if a return to United was impossible.

He also credited former United defender Rio Ferdinand and Michael Carrick for providing advice that helped convince him to return to the club.