Barcelona captain Raphinha has hailed teammate Lamine Yamal as the best footballer in the world at present, expressing admiration for the teenager’s impressive performances and his growing importance to the Catalan club.

According to a report by Daily Post Nigeria, the Brazilian international shared his assessment during an interview with CazeTV, insisting that Yamal’s displays have elevated him above other leading players in world football.

Raphinha said he had little doubt about the youngster’s current standing, pointing to the quality and consistency of his performances as evidence of his exceptional ability.

“Lamine is proving that he is the best player in the world right now,” the Barcelona captain said.

The Brazilian also suggested that Yamal had established a considerable advantage over the player he considers the second-best in the world. His comments underline the confidence he has in his teammate and the belief that the young forward is already operating at an extraordinary level.

Yamal first attracted widespread attention after breaking into Barcelona’s senior team in 2023 under former manager Xavi Hernández. Since then, he has developed into one of the club’s most influential attacking players, regularly demonstrating his ability to create chances, beat defenders and affect the outcome of important matches.

His progress has also strengthened his position within Spain’s national team, where he has continued to gain experience on the international stage. Despite his age, Yamal has become a prominent figure in discussions about the future of football, with many observers closely following his development.

At 19, the forward is among the players attracting attention ahead of the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place in London on Monday, with anticipation building over which footballer will receive the prestigious individual award.

Raphinha’s public endorsement has added to the attention surrounding Yamal in the build-up to the ceremony. However, the Brazilian’s opinion does not determine the outcome, which will be decided through the award’s established voting process and an assessment of the candidates’ performances during the relevant period.

The Ballon d’Or recognises achievements over a broader timeframe, meaning the eventual winner will be determined by more than current form alone. Other leading contenders will also be considered based on their individual displays and contributions to their respective teams.

Nevertheless, Raphinha’s comments demonstrate the high regard in which Yamal is held by his Barcelona teammates. As captain, the Brazilian’s praise highlights the youngster’s influence within the squad and the expectations surrounding his continued development.

Yamal’s rapid rise has positioned him among the most closely watched players in European football, and his performances will remain central to Barcelona’s ambitions as the season progresses. Whether he secures the Ballon d’Or or not, Raphinha clearly believes his teammate has already established himself at the highest level of the sport.

The upcoming ceremony will provide an opportunity to recognise the achievements of the leading candidates, while Yamal’s continued progress is likely to keep him in contention for major individual honours in the years ahead.