In a recent statement, the president of the Cameroon Football Federation highlighted young Spanish player Yamal, a decision that has surprised many African football fans.
No contest for Samuel Eto’o. According to the former FC Barcelona striker, the 2026 Ballon d'Or should go to Yamine Lamal, the 19-year-old Spanish forward. The ex-star of Mallorca announced this last night on his social media. “Ballon d'Or of our hearts. Genius, bold, talented… Good luck in this quest for the Ballon d'Or. But regardless of the outcome, one thing is already certain: just like Ousmane, you are already the Ballon d'Or of our hearts. Keep making us dream. lamineyamal FC Barcelona,” wrote the all-time top scorer of the Africa Cup of Nations, accompanying his message with a photo of the young player. Selected among the 30 nominees, the FC Barcelona forward has several advantages in securing this prestigious award. For the 2025-26 season, he played 57 matches, scored 25 goals, and provided 20 assists. His accolades for the same season include a World Cup, a La Liga title, and a Supercopa de España. Despite these arguments in favor of the young talent, several football fans found ways to criticize Samuel Eto’o.
For many internet users, Samuel Eto’o, who claims to defend Africa's interests in football, should vote for an African player. This is a valid argument, especially since Georges Weah is the only African to have won the Ballon d'Or. Among the African nominees for this edition is Achraf Hakimi, the 27-year-old Moroccan defender. For the 2025-26 season, the PSG defender played 49 matches, scored 4 goals, delivered 17 assists, received 6 yellow cards, and 1 red card. His accolades include a Champions League title and a UEFA Super Cup. Senegalese forward Sadio Mané has also been nominated. At 34 years old, the Al-Nassr player participated in 55 matches, scored 24 goals, made 13 assists, received 8 yellow cards, and 1 red card. He has also won the Africa Cup of Nations.
