Hansi Flick admits Ousmane Dembele 'deserved' Ballon d'Or and says Lamine Yamal now 'motivated for the coming years' after Barcelona star missed out on top prize

PSG superstar forward Dembele lifted the 2025 Ballon d’Or after a stunning campaign that saw him score 35 goals as the French side secured a clean sweep of trophies. His contribution under Luis Enrique guided PSG to their first Champions League triumph, the biggest of the four titles they claimed over the course of the campaign, cementing the Frenchman’s reputation as one of the most decisive players in world football.

Yamal was largely seen as Dembele's main challenger to the Golden Ball but had to settle for the runner-up spot in what was described by France Football as a convincing win for the Frenchman. At 18, though, the Spain sensation is expected to continue to blossom and is expected to be among the favourites again in the future due to his performances for club and country.

The outcome of the vote does not seem to have bothered the winger as he congratulated Dembele on the win and celebrated his own second consecutive Kopa Trophy success. According to Flick, he is fired up to deliver on the promise he has shown in the future.

Flick shared insight into Yamal’s mindset after finishing runner-up, telling reporters on Wednesday: "I spoke to him yesterday. He's doing well, motivated for the coming years. And there's Dembele, who deserved it. He accepted it well and is motivated to prove his worth and, perhaps, have a chance for next season. He's very close to returning. And from what I've seen, he seems to be doing well."

Barca face a crucial run of fixtures, with Yamal expected back on the pitch “very soon,” according to Flick. His form will be vital as Barca look to defend their domestic titles and push deeper into Europe. For Dembele, the Ballon d’Or cements his rise at PSG. The two european powerhouses are set to face each other in the Champions League match on October 1. The game was set to be held at Camp Nou, but it will now be played at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.