Lamine Yamal has become a true mass idol at just 17 years old. The Spaniard is a clear candidate for the Ballon d'Or after dazzling with Barça this season, and his prominence already crosses borders. In recent hours, a true NBA star like the Greek Giannis Antetokounmpo has elevated him to the world throne. In a "questions and answers" session on his X account, the Milwaukee Bucks player was blunt.
Giannis Antetokounmpo swaps Vinícius for Lamine Yamal
When asked who his favorite footballer is, the truth is that Antetokounmpo couldn't have been clearer. "Lamine Yamal is different," he replied via X. This response has caused some stir, with several users recalling his multiple encounters with Vinícius Júnior on different basketball courts.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, a recognized Real Madrid fan, is clear that Lamine Yamal, as of today, is superior to Vinícius. Despite certain media in Spain trying to cover this up, the reality is that his figure already crosses borders.
The NBA player didn't stop there, as he continued to praise Lamine Yamal. When questioned about his opinion of the FC Barcelona star, he replied: "He is the present and future of soccer."
These words surely didn't amuse Vinícius Júnior, who has been seen on multiple occasions with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite any friendships that may exist, the unbelievable level of Lamine Yamal at just 17 years old can't be hidden and is something that crosses borders.
Lamine Yamal could win the Ballon d'Or before Vinícius Júnior
Lamine Yamal, at just 17 years old, has established himself as one of the great stars of soccer and a key figure in Barcelona. In his second season at the elite level, he has played 53 games, scoring 17 goals and providing 25 assists, figures that reflect his impact.
His outstanding performance in Euro 2024, where he was one of the stars of the champion Spanish team, earned him the Best Young Player award of the tournament. Additionally, he was awarded the Kopa Trophy for the best under-21 player in the world, becoming the youngest winner in the history of this recognition.
At the 2024 Ballon d'Or gala, Lamine Yamal made history by entering the Top-10 of the prestigious award, surpassing Mbappé as the youngest player to achieve it. His agent, Jorge Mendes, has expressed his confidence that Lamine will win the Ballon d'Or in the coming years.
With his talent, maturity, and determination, Lamine Yamal not only leads Barça but also emerges as a future Ballon d'Or winner, as Giannis Antetokounmpo has pointed out.