Lamine Yamal wins the 2024 Kopa Trophy with overwhelming support from former Golden Balls
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal has established himself as one of the most promising players of his generation. Playing for FC Barcelona and actively participating in Spain’s coronation at Euro 2024, Yamal has captivated the attention of the football world. His talent and early maturity marked the season. He quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional young player on the European scene.
The Kopa Trophyreserved for players under 21, is awarded by a jury composed exclusively of former Ballon d’Or winners. This year, Yamal was almost unanimous among the 23 voters. Indeed, 22 of them placed the Barcelona winger in first position. Support which illustrates the recognition of his talent by the greatest football legends.
An exception: Ronaldo’s vote for Savinho
Despite this plebiscite, a former Ballon d’Or chose not to give his first vote to Lamine Yamal. Ronaldo, Brazilian legend and former FC Barcelona icon, preferred to place his compatriot Savinho at the top of his personal ranking. However, even with this support, Savinho only reached 4th place in the final rankings.
The final ranking of the 2024 Kopa Trophy
1. Lamine Yamal (Spain, FC Barcelona), 113 points.
2. Arda Güler (Turquie, Real Madrid), 26 pts.
3. Kobbie Mainoo (Angleterre, Manchester United), 20 pts.
4. Savinho (Brazil, Girona), 19 pts.
5. Pau Cubarsi (Spain, FC Barcelona), 8 pts.
6. Alejandro Garnacho (Argentine, Manchester United),
-. Joao Neves (Portugal, Benfica Lisbonne), 6 pts.
8. Karim Konaté (Ivory Coast, RB Salzburg), 3 pts.
-.Mathys Tel (France, Bayern Munich), 3 pts.
-.Warren Zaire-Emery (France, Paris-SG), 3 pts.
Lamine Yamal managed to make an impression through his talent and consistency, despite his young age. By winning the 2024 Kopa Trophy with almost unanimous support, he confirms his status as a young prodigy. This suggests a promising future.
