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Barcelona teammates Lamine Yamal and Vicky López have retained their men’s and women’s Young Talent of the Year awards at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on Monday.
Yamal took the men’s award for the third year in a row, having won it in 2024 and 2025, while López took the women’s honor for the second year in a row.
However, Yamal acknowledged his Barcelona teammate Pau Cubarsí during his acceptance speech, saying the defender deserved to win the award.
“Pau Cubarsi deserves the best young talent award,” said Yamal.
The remarks highlighted the winger’s recognition of his teammate, who is also among the nominees for the men’s award.
Yamal enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 season with Barcelona, recording 16 goals and 11 assists in 28 La Liga appearances.
His contribution played a vital role in Barcelona’s league title win, while his performances earned him the La Liga Player of the Season award. This 19 year old player also recorded his highest number of goals in a La Liga season.
Meanwhile, López impressed with Barcelona’s women’s team, registering 10 goals and nine assists in 28 League F appearances during the 2025/26 season.
The Spanish midfielder’s contribution in attack helps underline his increasing importance to the team as he continues his development at the club.
Having won the first female Young Talent of the Year award in 2025, López’s latest win makes her a two-time award winner.
The double win gave Barcelona further recognition of their emerging talents, with both players retaining their respective awards at this year’s ceremony.
By: Adedoyin Onajobi
