Rüdiger gives his opinion on the Ballon d’Or: “For me, it’s him”

Real Madrid centre-back Antonio Rüdiger has made a bold and surprising claim about who he believes should win the 2025 Ballon d’Or — and to the shock of many, his pick comes from FC Barcelona. The German international didn’t hesitate when asked, firmly stating that, in his eyes, the most deserving player of the prestigious award is none other than Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal.

Rüdiger, known for his fierce competitiveness and strong character on the pitch, has faced Yamal multiple times this season during tense El Clásico clashes. But instead of downplaying the youngster’s influence, the former Chelsea defender heaped praise on him, recognizing not only his talent but also his decisive performances in the biggest matches.

“Honestly, Barcelona have dominated everything this season,” Rüdiger admitted. “They achieved a deserved national treble by playing fantastic football. We suffered against them, especially in the last four Clásicos, all of which we lost.”

This admission is telling, especially coming from a key player in one of the strongest teams in Europe. Real Madrid may have achieved greatness in Europe over recent years, but the 2024–25 season has seen them eclipsed domestically by a rejuvenated Barcelona side led by youth — with Yamal at the forefront.

Rüdiger was not shy in expressing just how impressed he’s been with the 17-year-old winger. “Lamine Yamal is the clear favourite for the Ballon d’Or,” he declared. “This kid terrorized everyone. He is unstoppable: whether by his speed, his technique or his audacity.”

The praise didn’t stop there. In fact, Rüdiger went as far as to compare Yamal’s influence to that of football legend Lionel Messi, saying: “It’s like Messi has resurrected through him to finish what he started. Saying this as a Real Madrid player isn’t easy, but it’s the truth.”

It’s a striking statement. For a Madridista to publicly hail a Barcelona player as not just talented but Ballon d’Or-worthy — and liken him to Messi — is nearly unthinkable. But Rüdiger’s honesty paints a clear picture of how dominant Yamal has been this season.

Having already helped Spain win the European Championship, Yamal has firmly established himself as not only a club phenomenon but a national hero as well. His impact at such a young age has been profound, and even seasoned professionals like Rüdiger are recognizing his maturity and footballing intelligence.

Rüdiger also hinted at a bigger picture — a changing of the guard in Spanish football. “This generation of Barça players will be Europe’s next nightmare, and Lamine is their heart,” he said. “Congratulations to them. But we won’t forget… and we will come back stronger. Today is their day.”

Such words reflect both humility and rivalry — two emotions deeply embedded in the Real Madrid-Barcelona dynamic. Rüdiger’s comments serve not only as praise but also as a warning: Real Madrid will regroup and aim to reclaim their throne.

Nevertheless, his candid recognition of Yamal’s brilliance is likely to resonate across the football world. With players, pundits, and fans already buzzing about who should take home the 2025 Ballon d’Or, Rüdiger’s endorsement adds fuel to Yamal’s campaign.

As the football community eagerly awaits the official ceremony, Rüdiger’s voice may have tipped the scales. And if Lamine Yamal does end up lifting the golden ball, he might just have earned the respect of even his fiercest rivals.