Mbappe calls Yamal 'very talented' amid Ballon d'Or debate

Kylian Mbappe has praised Lamine Yamal as "a very talented player" while entering the ongoing discussion around the Ballon d'Or. In comments given to Jose Felix Diaz of AS, the France forward responded to remarks from the Barcelona player and made clear that he has his own view on who should win the award.

Mbappe offers praise for Yamal

Mbappe's assessment of Yamal was warm and direct. The Frenchman described the Barcelona youngster as a highly gifted footballer, a notable endorsement given the attention surrounding Yamal's rise and his growing place in the wider conversation about the game's biggest individual prize.

Those comments came as part of Mbappe's response in the Ballon d'Or debate, which continues to generate discussion. The exchange adds another layer to a subject that regularly draws strong opinions from leading players across European football.

Ballon d'Or discussion remains active

The key point from Mbappe's interview was not only his praise for Yamal, but also his willingness to address the award directly. According to the source material, he answered the Barcelona player's stance on the Ballon d'Or and indicated who, in his opinion, should receive it.

That keeps the spotlight firmly on both the award itself and the players being discussed around it. When a figure of Mbappe's profile speaks publicly on the Ballon d'Or, the remarks inevitably carry weight, particularly when they involve one of the most talked-about young talents in the game.

A debate shaped by star voices

Yamal's name being mentioned in this context underlines how quickly he has become part of elite-level football conversations. Mbappe's words, meanwhile, show that admiration for the Barcelona player can exist alongside disagreement over major individual honours.

What is clear from the interview is that Mbappe chose a respectful tone toward Yamal while still taking a position in the wider argument. His description of the Barcelona player as very talented stands out, even as the dispute over the Ballon d'Or continues.

• Mbappe spoke to Jose Felix Diaz of AS.
• He described Lamine Yamal as a very talented player.
• He responded to the Barcelona player's comments regarding the Ballon d'Or.
• He also indicated who he believes should win the award.