The nominations list for the 2026 Ballon d’Or Awards best men’s young talent of the year category has been confirmed.
Lamine Yamal once again getting the nomination as expected. The Barcelona and Spain player has been a regular in this category since he made his big break.
Morocco and Manchester City midfielder, Ayyoub Bouaddi leads the way at the top of this list for best young player.
The newly signed City player was a marvel to watch during the FIFA World Cup after finishing the season strong with Lille.
Yan Diomande of Real Madrid and Ivory Coast also make the cut as another African player nominated for this category.
SEE FULL NOMINEES LIST
Kerim Alajbegović
Ayyoub Bouaddi
Pau Cubarsí
Yan Diomandé
Lennart Karl
Éli Junior Kroupi
Lamine Yamal
Johan Manzambi
Ibrahim Maza
Warren Zaïre-Emery
The competition for this category is so strong for any favorite to be seen before the day of announcement.
Fans will be patiently waiting to see who goes home with the Ballon d’Or Award for best men’s young talent of the year 2026.
