Former Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba has named teenage winger Lamine Yamal as his favorite player in the current Barcelona squad under coach Hansi Flick. In an interview published on May 8, 2026, Alba said, 'He has taken a big step forward. He is very young but already shows incredible maturity.'
Alba, who left Barcelona in 2023 after 11 seasons, praised Yamal's development since breaking into the first team. The 18-year-old Yamal has become a key player for Barcelona this season, contributing goals and assists in La Liga and the Champions League.
The comments come as Barcelona prepares for the final stretch of the 2025-26 season, with Yamal expected to play a crucial role. Alba's endorsement adds to the growing recognition of Yamal as one of football's brightest prospects.