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AC Milan legend Ruud Gullit has revealed the real reason for his decision to snub Barcelona's sensation Lamine Yamal in the voting for the Kopa Trophy. The Dutchman did not vote for the Spaniard to win the award despite the 18-year-old being an overwhelming favorite to win it.
Gullit, who gave Yamal the trophy during the Ballon d'Or gala, spoke on Dutch outlet Ziggo Sport about his pick for this year's Kopa Trophy, revealing the reason why he chose Desire Doue. He pointed out that he believes that Lamine Yamal's career has surpassed the need for the Kopa Trophy, hence his decision to back someone else.
“Why didn't I vote for Lamine in the Kopa trophy? Voting in that award means giving a 'boost' to a young player. And Lamine Yamal doesn't need that anymore, he is past that. So I gave my vote to Desiré Doué", he clarified (via @BarcaTimes).
Spain's international Lamine Yamal beat France and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) teen-age sensation Doue to win the Kopa Trophy this year. The Barcelona man became the first player to win the award on more than one occasion, having also received it for a brilliant 2024.
Desire Doue delivered a fine season with PSG, playing a pivotal role as Luis Enrique's side strolled to their first treble. The youngster amassed 15 goals and gave 14 assists in 54 appearances across all competitions for Les Parisians, and scored twice in the final win over Inter Milan.
Yamal helped La Blaugrana to secure LaLiga, Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de Espana. He also featured prominently as Spain reached the final of the UEFA Nations League and finished second behind Ousmane Dembele in the Ballon d'Or voting.
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