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Lamine Yamal Wins Best Forward and Maradona Awards in Dubai as He Rejects Ronaldo Comparisons

The 18-year-old Barcelona winger capped a standout year highlighted by a Ballon d'Or runner-up finish alongside a second straight Kopa Trophy.

Overview

  • At the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Dec. 28–29, Yamal was named Best Forward and received the Diego Maradona Award.
  • In his acceptance remarks, he said it is best not to compare yourself to anyone and that he wants to build his own path, according to comments reported by Fabrizio Romano.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo attended the ceremony and was shown smiling in approval as Yamal referenced him, per broadcast coverage cited by the Mirror.
  • The new accolades add to Yamal’s 2025 recognition that includes finishing second in the Ballon d'Or and retaining the Kopa Trophy.
  • This season he has seven La Liga goals and six assists as reported by outlets, contributing to Barcelona’s position at the top of the table.