LaLiga president Javier Tebas has explained why Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal was overlooked for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, despite finishing as runner-up to Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele.

According to Tebas, Yamal’s age played a decisive role in the final outcome.

“If he had been older than 23, he would have won it, too, I’m sure. But since he was younger, they gave him the [Kopa Trophy],” Tebas said.

The 18-year-old winger, who has enjoyed a remarkable year with Barcelona and Spain, once again claimed the Kopa Trophy for best young player — his second in a row.

Meanwhile, Barcelona president Joan Laporta offered a different view, admitting that Dembele’s triumph was largely influenced by PSG’s Champions League success.

Dembele, who rejoined PSG last summer, topped the Ballon d’Or voting, securing his first-ever win, while Yamal had to settle for second place.