According to a report by Barca Universal on Tuesday October 27, 2026, Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has backed Lamine Yamal to win several Ballon d’Or awards in the future after the Barcelona winger finished third in the 2026 voting.

Harry Kane won the prestigious award at Monday’s ceremony in London, finishing ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Yamal.

Despite missing out on the main prize, the 19-year-old received encouragement from De la Fuente, who believes the young forward has the potential to become one of football’s most decorated players.

“Lamine is going to win many Ballon d'Ors. He should rest easy, because we know who he is and the potential he possesses,” the Spain manager said after the ceremony.

Yamal did not leave London empty-handed, as he won the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year, recognising him as the best young player in world football.

The Barcelona star enjoyed an impressive 2025-26 campaign, recording 24 goals and 18 assists in 45 appearances. He also helped the Catalan club win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup.

However, the teenager has endured a difficult week following Barcelona’s 4-2 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain and their 2-1 loss to Real Madrid in El Clasico.

Yamal scored against PSG but was unable to prevent Barcelona from suffering another defeat against their bitter rivals, with Mbappé scoring twice for Real Madrid.

Despite those setbacks, Barcelona remain in contention for the La Liga title, while Yamal has already reached 10 goals for the club this season.

The youngster will now look to help Hansi Flick’s side return to winning ways when they face Alaves on Saturday.

Although the Ballon d’Or remains out of his reach for now, De la Fuente’s backing highlights the confidence surrounding Yamal’s future as he continues to establish himself among the leading players in world football.