Why Lamine Yamal Is Not Included in the Golden Boy 2025 Nominations
Lamine Yamal’s win in 2024 was one of the most decisive in the award’s history. At just 17, he became the youngest ever player to win the Golden Boy Award. His creativity, technical skill, and maturity beyond his years made him stand out across Europe.
During that year, Yamal played a crucial role in Barcelona’s attacking system, recording goals, assists, and consistent performances in both La Liga and European competitions. He also impressed for Spain’s national team, further proving his quality on the international stage.
His achievements made it clear that he was already operating at a level above most players in his age group, which explains why Tuttosport’s system naturally moves on to recognise new emerging stars.
The 2025 Golden Boy Race Without Yamal
With Yamal out of contention, the 2025 Golden Boy race has opened up for a new generation of talents. Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsí has emerged as one of the early favourites to take the title, leading the rankings with strong performances throughout the season.
Other standout names include Warren Zaire-Emery of PSG, Désiré Doué, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Kenan Yildiz of Juventus. Real Madrid’s young trio, Arda Güler, Endrick, and Dean Huijsen, are also part of the top 100 nominees.
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While these names dominate the 2025 conversation, Yamal’s absence serves as a reminder of how prestigious his previous victory was. He has already achieved what every young footballer dreams of, being recognised as Europe’s best under-21 player.
Why Fans Were Confused
Many fans assumed that a former winner could be nominated again if they continued to perform at a high level. However, the Golden Boy Award’s rules are strict, the competition is designed to highlight new and rising stars each year, not to celebrate established young professionals repeatedly.
This approach ensures that the award continues to uncover new talents instead of rewarding the same players multiple times. As a result, while Yamal continues to shine for Barcelona, the Golden Boy spotlight moves on to the next generation.
What’s Next for Lamine Yamal
Even though he’s no longer eligible for the Golden Boy Award, Lamine Yamal’s career is only just beginning. The next step for him will be competing for senior-level honours, such as:
- The Ballon d’Or (especially the Kopa Trophy for best U21 player)
- The FIFPRO World 11, where he was already included in 2025
- Potential club and international titles with Barcelona and Spain
Yamal’s consistency, vision, and ability to handle pressure at such a young age make him one of football’s most promising players. His Golden Boy victory was just the start of what looks to be a legendary career.
Final Thoughts
Lamine Yamal’s absence from the 2025 Golden Boy nominations is not a snub or oversight, it’s a result of his own success. Having already claimed the award in 2024, he has graduated from the category of “rising star” to “established elite talent.
The Golden Boy Award now looks for the next young player ready to follow in Yamal’s footsteps. But no matter who wins this year, Yamal’s name will remain a benchmark for brilliance in youth football.
FAQs
Q1. Why is Lamine Yamal not on the 2025 Golden Boy list?
A. Because he already won the award in 2024 and is therefore ineligible for future nominations.
Q2. Can a player win the Golden Boy more than once?
A. No, according to Tuttosport’s rules, a player can only win once.
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Q3. Who are the favourites for the 2025 Golden Boy Award?
A. Pau Cubarsí, Désiré Doué, Warren Zaire-Emery, and Dean Huijsen are among the top contenders.
Q4. What award did Yamal win in 2024?
A. He won the Golden Boy Award, becoming the youngest winner in history at just 17 years old.
Q5. What other awards can Yamal compete for now?
A. He is eligible for senior honours like the Ballon d’Or and FIFA’s individual awards.
Also Read- FIFPRO World 11 2025: Complete List Of Men’s And Women’s Teams Revealed
