16-Year-Old Lamine Yamal Becomes Golden Boy 2024 Winner

Barcelona teen star, Lamine Yamal, has been awarded the 2024 Golden Boy Award.

The annual accolade, presented by Italian publication Tuttosport, recognises the best footballer in Europe aged under 21.

Although the official presentation of the trophy is scheduled for December 16, the Spanish sensation was announced as the winner during a live-streamed event on Wednesday.

Yamal beat 24 other nominees, including Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, Paris Saint-Germain’s Warren Zaïre-Emery, and Real Madrid’s Endrick, to claim the prestigious award.

The 16-year-old becomes the fourth Barcelona player to win the Golden Boy award and the fifth Spanish player to achieve the honor.

Previous Barcelona winners include Lionel Messi (2005), Pedri González (2021), and Gavi (2022). The Spanish winners’ list features Pedri, Gavi, Isco Alarcón (Málaga, 2012), and Cesc Fàbregas (Arsenal, 2006).

Yamal has risen to prominence this year with exceptional performances that have set him apart on both club and international stages.

Notably, the teenager played a pivotal role in helping the Spanish national team secure victory at the UEFA European Championship earlier this year.