Mikel Names Yamal as 2026 World Cup Golden Ball Winner

Mikel, speaking on his Obi One podcast, lauded the teenager’s confidence and outstanding performances, calling him the tournament’s standout player in North America.

“I have to go with Lamine Yamal,” Mikel Obi said.

“He’s just amazing. The way he plays, the confidence he plays with, everything he does is just superb.”

“I think me and every football fan are looking forward to watching him again, and I think he will be great again.”

Lamine Yamal is expected to be fit and ready for Spain’s opening match against Cape Verde on June 15. Although a severe hamstring injury sustained in April initially threatened his participation, the Barcelona star has successfully returned to full team training and is progressing well.

Yamal suffered a left hamstring injury on April 22 during a LaLiga match. While this forced him to miss the final weeks of the club season, the Spanish medical team has carefully managed his rehabilitation.

National team coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed deep optimism, stating that Yamal is training well and, barring any late setbacks, is on track to feature in the debut match.