In an exclusive interview with World Soccer Talk, Eason made it clear that Diomande will offer something Real Madrid currently lacks. “I think Real Madrid probably needs that right about now, you know? Barcelona has been dominating with the flashy players like Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and all those other guys, and now, Real Madrid has just taken a kind of a project player that is an exciting player to watch.

“I think they can appreciate that: ‘Okay, we’re going to make some changes, we’re going to add some pieces that are going to be dynamic and a little bit different from what we’ve been in the past.'” Eason makes a valid point. The side now managed by Mourinho features highly explosive players like Mbappe and Vinicius, but it lacks that dose of youth and unpredictability that Yan can offer.

Diomande in Golden Boy rankings

Barcelona players Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, alongside Real Madrid forward Yan Diomande, lead the race for the 2026 Golden Boy award, according to the recent top 100 update published by Italian newspaper Tuttosport.

Yamal appears in second place, though he cannot receive the award again after winning it in 2024. Meanwhile, Cubarsi claimed first place after playing all eight games for Spain in the latest World Cup, where they saw the defender recognized as the best young player of the tournament.

Diomande occupies the third spot after becoming one of the main new additions to the ranking. The forward made a significant leap thanks to the level he displayed in the World Cup.

Diomande’s arrival at Real Madrid

The forward left Leipzig to join Real Madrid for $144.6 million, an amount that could rise to $162 million with add-ons. This operation stands as the most expensive transfer in the history of the club, surpassing the signing of Jude Bellingham.

Real Madrid now prepares for a season filled with high expectations. Alongside Diomande, interesting signings arrived, including Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella, and Denzel Dumfries. It promises to be an intriguing matchup against Barcelona in La Liga and Spanish competitions, where fans will see what Diomande is truly made of if he logs minutes against Yamal’s Barcelona.

While highlighting that Yamal had an impact on Spain’s ultimate victory, Lewandowski asserted that the best version of the winger—who turned 19 years old six days before the final against Argentina—was not on display.

“Honestly, we didn’t see his best version in this tournament. For me, his best performance, the best Lamine, was not last season, but two seasons ago; that was, in my opinion, the best version of Lamine Yamal,” Lewandowski stated in an interview with ESPN regarding the Spanish player, who scored just one goal in the entire World Cup. Lewandowski also recalled that the youngster entered the World Cup following an injury that kept him out of action for several weeks.

Lewandowski’s praise for Lamine

As mentioned, Lamine recently turned 19 years old, remaining one of soccer’s top prospects and future stars who is already displaying his great qualities. Additionally, his former teammate Lewandowski praised how he adapted and pushed forward in the toughest competition in the sporting world.

For the current Chicago Fire goalscorer, that lack of playing time impacted his performance, though he valued the way Yamal managed to adapt to such a demanding competition. “He is young, he arrived at the World Cup after an injury, and he went about eight weeks without playing. It is difficult to be inactive for so long and have to start playing directly in a World Cup,” Lewandowski explained.

Lewandowski also highlighted that his squad was key to lifting him up: “His teammates helped him, and he also helped the team. I think that collaboration was perfect.”

Why did he support Spain over Argentina

The former Bayern Munich star also revealed that he closely followed La Roja’s campaign due to the bond he maintains with several members of the roster. “I know many Spanish players and spent a lot of time with them at Barcelona, so I supported them quite a bit,” he commented.

Regarding Argentina, he acknowledged that his personal connections are much more limited. “From Argentina, I only know Leo personally, although I know they won the last World Cup. That is why I supported the Spanish national team,” he maintained, before celebrating the title captured by the side led by Luis de la Fuente.

“I was happy because I knew they were prepared to win the World Cup. They are very young and have the whole future ahead of them,” Lewandowski concluded.

“Soirée of the Year VII: Paredes vs. Gavi,” the sign, which Fabian Ruiz first held before handing it to Yamal, read. Moreover, Yamal looked at the camera, pointed to his eye, and said: “We’ll see each other.”

Although it all happened in a festive mood, Spain‘s provocation was clear, as the postgame incident wasn’t forgotten. To the victor belong the spoils, and it’s clear Yamal, who won his first World Cup at 19, and Spain will be having the last laugh. Similar scenes were seen when Argentina won the 2022 World Cup, as Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez celebrated with a baby doll featuring Kylian Mbappe’s face. Argentina also mocked Colombia’s fan song after their win at the 2024 Copa America.

Now, they are on the losing side and are getting a taste of their own medicine. Still, Argentines are used to far worse provocations in their soccer culture and have also been mocked by Germany after the 2014 World Cup final loss. It’s all give and take. This time, Argentina couldn’t get it done and must take it on the chin.

Context behind Yamal’s sign

The “Soirée of the Year” (La Velada del Año) is an amateur boxing event held by Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos, in which social media celebrities from all over the world put on the gloves and box. The sixth annual edition will be held on July 25 in Sevilla, Spain.

Because the timing is too tight, the sign Yamal held during the 2026 World Cup parade was aimed at next year’s event, joking that Paredes and Gavi should battle it out in a boxing match in 2027. Even if they wanted to, though, it would be quite difficult for Paredes, who reportedly played through a rib injury at the 2026 World Cup, to participate.

For the time being, Paredes and Gavi have yet to break their silence and speak on the incident—if they ever do so—but it’s clear the rest of the players on Spain’s 2026 World Cup-winning roster are taking it lightly and joking about the matter.

Spain celebrate, Argentina grieve

The celebrations are only beginning, and as they continue, it’s possible Argentina will be on the receiving end of more shots from the Spanish side. Buckle up, it’s going to be a long celebration on Monday in sunny and warm Madrid, as a rainy, cold, and gray Buenos Aires will hear the repercussions.

Yamal is 19 years and six days old. For instance, Pele was exactly 17 years and 249 days old when he won his first FIFA World Cup in 1958. Hence, Pele is still the youngest World Cup winner in history.

Compared to Diego Maradona, who was 25 years and 242 days old when he lifted the World Cup, Yamal has reached the pinnacle of soccer before the legendary Argentine.

As for Lionel Messi, he earned his (first) World Cup title at 35 years and five months old. Out of this prestigious list, he is by far the one that was the oldest to achieve this feat. Hence, Yamal has accomplished soccer’s ultimate feat way before the greatest of all time.

Yamal’s stats during 2026 World Cup final

Lamine Yamal had a good performance in the World Cup, breaking several records. Per SofaScore, Yamal had a 7.3 rating in the final. Yamal had one key pass, one big chance created, completed 32/39 passes in the opposing half, had four shots (two on target), and had five successful dribbles.

Yamal had a big duel all game long against Argentina’s Nicolas Tagliafico. Yamal got the upper hand in plenty of occasions, but it wasn’t an easy matchup. Still, the fact is at 19 years old, Yamal knows what it’s like to be a World Cup champion. This explains why Yamal is now among the favorites to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Yamal joins Pele and Maradona in specific World Cup final stat

Yamal, Pele, and Maradona all won their first World Cup final. Their first shot at glory was successful. Messi is the whole opposite. Messi lost his first attempt in 2014, then won his second in 2022, only to lose the third one in 2026.

Both finals Messi lost were in extra time. Hence, with some few details going differently, Messi could’ve gone 3-0 in World Cup finals. However, he trails Maradona, who is 1-1 in finals, and Pele who is 3-0 (only played two), and now Yamal, who is 1-0.

One of Yamal’s earliest achievements came during the group stage, when he scored against Saudi Arabia to become the youngest Spanish player ever to score at a FIFA World Cup.

The goal also placed him among the youngest scorers in tournament history, and beat Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo with his first World Cup goal at 18, but Pele still holds the record.

From the group stage through the knockout rounds, Yamal consistently influenced matches with his creativity, pace, and composure under pressure. His performances helped Spain navigate a demanding tournament and ultimately lift their second FIFA World Cup title.

Lamine Yamal’s historic records at the 2026 World Cup

Yamal finished the tournament as the player with the most completed dribbles, recording 30 successful take-ons. He finished ahead of several of the world’s biggest stars, demonstrating his ability to consistently break defensive lines throughout Spain’s World Cup campaign.

Another landmark came in the knockout stage. At 19 years and one day old, Yamal became the second-youngest player in the last 60 years to win a penalty during a FIFA World Cup knockout match, trailing only England legend Michael Owen’s achievement at the 1998 World Cup.

He also featured in another unique milestone alongside teammate Pau Cubarsí. The pair became two of only seven teenagers in soccer history to start a FIFA World Cup semifinal, underlining Spain’s confidence in its new generation during the tournament’s biggest matches.

What Yamal’s World Cup means for Spain’s future

With the real possibility that Lamine Yamal will be at the 2030 World Cup and with an enviable age that gives him years to keep growing, Yamal’s performances confirmed his emergence as one of international soccer’s elite young players. He proved capable of delivering on the biggest stage while becoming one of the central figures in Spain’s run to the world title.

With the 2026 World Cup now complete, Yamal leaves the tournament not only as a world champion but also as one of its most decorated young performers. His record-breaking campaign has strengthened expectations that he will remain one of the leaders of Spain’s national team for many years to come.

Fresh off his World Cup triumph, Yamal has emerged as the frontrunner for soccer’s most prestigious individual honor. However, the teenager faces stiff competition in a crowded field. Here is a breakdown of the top contenders on the shortlist:

• Lamine Yamal
• Lionel Messi
• Harry Kane
• Ousmane Dembele
• Kylian Mbappe

Yamal’s sensational campaign with Spain and FC Barcelona

At just 19 years old, Yamal broke multiple World Cup records in a fantastic season. While he guided FC Barcelona to a La Liga title, his international run with Spain cemented his superstar status. Yamal didn’t just anchor La Roja’s qualification campaign, he spearheaded a historic championship run capped by a thrilling victory over Argentina. Yamal’s World Cup triumph at 19 has drawn comparisons to Pele and Diego Maradona.

A closer look at his remarkable statistical output this season:

• FC Barcelona (2025–26 Season)
  • La Liga: 38 appearances | 18 goals | 14 assists
  • UEFA Champions League: 10 appearances | 4 goals | 3 assists
  • Copa del Rey / Supercopa: 6 appearances | 2 goals | 3 assists
  • Club season totals: 54 appearances | 24 goals | 20 assists
• Spain National Team (2025–26 Campaign)
  • UEFA Nations League & Qualifiers: 6 appearances | 1 goal | 2 assists
  • 2026 FIFA World Cup: 8 appearances | 1 goal | 0 assists
  • International campaign Totals: 13 appearances | 2 goals | 2 assists
• Combined season totals (Club & Country)
  • Total appearances: 68 matches
  • Total goals: 26 goals
  • Total assists: 22 assists
  • Total direct goal contributions: 48 G/A

Last 10 Ballon d’Or Winners

With Yamal firmly established as the frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or, anticipation is mounting over the final vote, which could see the young phenom join Rodri as the latest in a new generation of Spanish superstars to claim football’s ultimate individual prize.

These are the last 10 Ballon d’Or winners:

• 2025: Ousmane Dembele (France / Paris Saint-Germain)
• 2024: Rodri (Spain / Manchester City)
• 2023: Lionel Messi (Argentina / Paris Saint-Germain & Inter Miami)
• 2022: Karim Benzema (France / Real Madrid)
• 2021: Lionel Messi (Argentina / Barcelona & Paris Saint-Germain)
• 2020: Not awarded (Canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic)
• 2019: Lionel Messi (Argentina / Barcelona)
• 2018: Luka Modric (Croatia / Real Madrid)
• 2017: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal / Real Madrid)
• 2016: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal / Real Madrid)
• 2015: Lionel Messi (Argentina / Barcelona)

Only 19 years old at the 2026 World Cup, Yamal is expected to play in many more tournaments to come. Defenders and goalkeepers beware, the Spanish wonderkid is here to stay.

The next FIFA World Cup will take place in four years, in 2030. By the start of soccer’s biggest tournament, Yamal will be 22. However, having been born on July 13, he will turn 23 during the 2030 World Cup. Whether he and Spain are still alive in the tournament by then is a different question.

Could Yamal be youngest player to win World Cup?

The answer is no. Although Yamal has taken the world by storm right from the get go and a very young age, even if he wins the 2026 World Cup with Spain, he wouldn’t be the youngest player to ever win the FIFA World Cup. That title is still held by Brazilian legend Pele (Edson Arantes do Nascimento).

Pele conquered soccer’s biggest tournament for the first time in 1958. He was only 17 years and 249 days old when he lifted the trophy in Sweden. He would go on to win three World Cups.

Needless to say, Yamal would put himself in great company should Spain win the 2026 World Cup. Moreover, history has shown that an early triumph can pave the way for multiple titles over the years. And for someone as determined to make history as Yamal, that’s all he could ask for.

Where will the 2030 World Cup be played?

Although there are several details that have yet to be finalized, the 2030 World Cup will be unlike any other. On paper, the tournament will be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. However, some matches are expected to be played in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay to commemorate the 1930 World Cup, the first ever. Moreover, the World Cup could expand to 64 teams.

Spain dominated possession for most of the match and created the better chances, but Argentina defended resiliently and relied on Martinez to force extra time. Argentina were reduced to 10 players after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card, allowing Spain to increase the pressure before finally breaking through in extra time.

Ferran Torres found the decisive goal after a brilliant move involving Martin Zubimendi and Nico Williams, giving Spain their long-awaited breakthrough. A late second goal was ruled out for offside, but it made no difference as Spain lifted the trophy.

Slavko Vinčić of Slovenia will be the man in charge of officiating a match that is expected to draw a massive crowd. Both managers are leaving nothing to chance, with several tactical changes ahead of this highly anticipated final.

With the atmosphere befitting a World Cup Final, anticipation continues to build as kickoff draws near. Lamine Yamal on one side, Lionel Messi on the other. Who will ultimately be crowned champion?

The predicted lineup for La Roja

Spain will be aiming to win the World Cup for just the second time in their history, but to do so, they must overcome none other than the reigning champions. Luis de la Fuente will stick with the core group of players he has relied on throughout the tournament, naming a starting XI very similar to the one used in most of Spain’s matches.

Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri (C), Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.

Argentina’s predicted lineup

Argentina are coming off another dramatic comeback victory, this time against England in the semifinals, securing a historic place in the World Cup Final. With the official lineup already confirmed, Lionel Scaloni will make a few adjustments to his tactical setup as Argentina look to defend their world title.

Emiliano Martinez; Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Nicolas Gonzalez, Enzo Fernandez; Lionel Messi (C), Julian Alvarez.

Yamal and Messi, face to face

Lamine Yamal vs. Lionel Messi, one of the biggest individual battles of this epic clash in New York. The Argentine No. 10 wants to continue his pursuit of the Golden Boot, currently sitting two goals behind Kylian Mbappe, while Yamal aims to become the new leader of La Roja as this team looks toward the future.

La Roja and La Albiceleste haven’t faced each other too often, and this will be the first time the two Barcelona-bred phenoms meet on the pitch. Messi did once bathe a young Yamal in a photo that has since gone viral, but neither could have imagined how their paths would unfold before eventually meeting on a soccer field.

Spain and Argentina will meet for the first time in a long time, and it has been even longer since their last—and only—World Cup meeting. While Messi was much younger the last time Argentina and Spain played, Yamal’s age at the time highlights just how special this upcoming matchup truly is.

Yamal’s age last time Spain faced Argentina

The last time Spain took on Argentina was on March 27, 2018. At the time, Yamal was just 10 years old. Needless to say, he wasn’t part of Spain’s squad, nor had he made his professional debut. That would come in April 2023, when Yamal made his first-team debut for Barcelona at the age of 15, becoming the youngest player in club history to appear in a league match.

The wonderkid made his debut for Spain’s senior national team on Sept. 8, 2023. Yamal became both the youngest player to ever wear La Roja’s colors and the youngest to score for the national team, finding the back of the net in his debut—a 7-1 victory over Georgia.

Yamal has never played Argentina

In the 2026 World Cup final, Yamal will face La Albiceleste for the first time in his international career. Naturally, he was only a child the last time Spain took on Argentina, but he hasn’t faced the South American powerhouse even at the youth level.

Then again, Yamal didn’t spend much time at the youth level, considering he was always playing with kids well above his age and debuted at the senior level at 16.

Although he’s already gone up against many of Argentina’s players at the club level, he’s never faced them while representing their country. Truth be told, the Argentines are a different beast when they don the sky-blue-and-white jersey.

While there are several world-class players to choose from in this star-studded final, Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi stand out as the two most iconic figures for their respective teams ahead of the title game.

Yamal, has a lot at stake in the World Cup final, represents the absolute future of the sport, while Messi, who knows Spain is a difficult rival, is widely considered the greatest of all time. Given their contrasting roles, comparing their tournament statistics ahead of this titanic duel offers a fascinating look at the matchup.

Lamine Yamal vs. Lionel Messi: 2026 World Cup goals

The most critical metric for any attacker is goalscoring. In this department, Lionel Messi holds a commanding edge, with the Argentina captain netting 8 goals compared to Lamine Yamal’s single strike.

Lamine Yamal vs. Lionel Messi: 2026 World Cup assists

When it comes to dynamic playmaking, Messi once again leads the way. The Argentine icon has racked up 4 assists, whereas the young Spanish winger is yet to register his first assist of the tournament.

Lamine Yamal vs. Lionel Messi: Minutes played

Their discrepancy in playing time highlights their different paths through the tournament. Lamine Yamal began the 2026 World Cup recovering from an injury, limiting his output to 557 minutes. Meanwhile, Messi has been an absolute mainstay for La Albiceleste, logging an impressive 712 minutes on the pitch.