Barcelona prodigy’s Ballon d’Or hopes take major leap after PSG’s Club World Cup collapse

PSG's victory in the UEFA Champions League this season significantly damaged Lamine Yamal's prospects of winning the Ballon d'Or. While Inter Milan's elimination of Barcelona prevented the latter from reaching the final, this outcome simultaneously gave PSG's Ousmane Dembele a major advantage in the race for the individual award.

There was an expectation that the FIFA Club World Cup, which PSG participated in but Barcelona did not qualify for, would be decisive for the Ballon d'Or. However, Mundo Deportivo reports this might not be the case following the tournament's result. PSG lost the Club World Cup final 0-3 to Chelsea, and Dembele had a particularly poor performance in that match, described as a night to forget. Although Dembele played a significant role for PSG throughout the event, starting two games and playing in four, his display in the final was unfavourable.

Despite the Club World Cup loss, Dembele remains a serious contender for the Ballon d'Or. His credentials include winning the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, the French Super Cup, and the French Cup. He also recorded impressive individual statistics last season with 35 goals and 15 assists for his club.

Yamal, who was considered a major favourite due to his outstanding performances for both club and country last season, could regain ground in the Ballon d'Or race following PSG's Club World Cup defeat. His impact on the global game and perception is highlighted. Yamal won the domestic treble with Barcelona and contributed 18 goals and 25 assists for the club.