'Nobody plays like that' - Lamine Yamal labelled 'the best' by Roberto Martinez but Portugal boss names two unlikely candidates to win Ballon d'Or ahead of Spain and Barcelona sensation

Yamal produced a phenomenal season with Barcelona, helping the Catalans return among the trophies. However, Portugal head coach Martinez strongly believes that two unlikely candidates in Vitinha and Nuno Mendes, who play under him in international football, are more worthy candidates of lifting this year's Ballon d'Or award.

Yamal has become one of the favourites to clinch the Ballon d'Or award after producing a historic season. The 17-year-old scored 21 goals and produced 25 assists in 62 games for club and country, helping Barca win the domestic treble. He was also instrumental in Spain reaching the Nations League final. His consistency and impact in big games have seen him become a hot favourite for the award among many players, coaches, and pundits.

On the other hand, Vitinha and Mendes were pivotal players in a picture perfect campaign with Paris Saint-Germain, as Luis Enrique's side completed a clean sweep of all trophies on available and lifted their maiden Champions League trophy. The left-back, in particular, shone on the international stage as well, winning the Nations League Finals Player of the Tournament.

Speaking on COPE's El Partidazoprogram, Martinez was effusive in his praise for Yamal: " I don't know how you treat him. Lamine is the best at his position and has been very consistent. There is no talent who plays in his position and plays like that. We have to help him."

When asked about his favourites for the Ballon d'Or, Martinez replied: "Vitinha and Nuno Mendes are far above the rest; at club level and because of their profile. Nuno Mendes, for me, is the best left-back I've ever seen. He can play on the outside and on the inside. He's very quick and has a good pass. I thought the perfect player didn't exist, and Nuno is very close to that."

Vitinha and Mendes, along with leading candidate Ousmane Dembele, will have a chance to further stake their claims for the Ballon d'Or in the Club World Cup, which begins on June 14. PSG play their first game of the tournament on June 15 against Atletico Madrid.