London hosted the Ballon d’Or ceremony for the first time, with Barcelona’s young generation and Spain’s national-team figures prominent across the awards. The evening brought expected recognition, a few surprises and plenty of discussion as the leading players, coaches and emerging talents of the year were honoured.
Barcelona’s young talents lead Kopa results
Lamine Yamal took first place in the men’s Kopa Trophy ranking for the best young talent, ahead of fellow Barcelona and Spain player Pau Cubarsí. Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Warren Zaïre-Emery completed the top three.
- Lamine Yamal — first place, Barcelona and Spain
- Pau Cubarsí — second place, Barcelona and Spain
- Warren Zaïre-Emery — third place, Paris Saint-Germain and France
Barcelona also supplied the winner of the women’s Kopa Trophy. Vicky López finished ahead of Clara Serrajordi, while Chelsea’s Dutch player Veerle Buurman placed third.
- Vicky López — first place, Barcelona and Spain
- Clara Serrajordi — second place, Barcelona and Spain
- Veerle Buurman — third place, Chelsea and the Netherlands
Spain and Barcelona recognised on the touchline
Luis de la Fuente, coach of the Spain men’s national team, received the Johan Cruyff Trophy for best coach. On the women’s side, Barcelona manager Pere Romeu was named the leading coach.
- Luis de la Fuente — Johan Cruyff Trophy, men’s best coach
- Pere Romeu — Johan Cruyff Trophy, women’s best coach
Goalkeepers take their place in the London honours
Athletic Club and Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón was listed as the leading men’s goalkeeper. Barcelona’s Cata Coll topped the women’s goalkeeper standings, with Ann-Katrin Berger of Gotham FC second and Manchester City’s Ayaka Kamashita third.
- Unai Simón — first place, Athletic Club and Spain
- Cata Coll — first place, Barcelona and Spain
- Ann-Katrin Berger — second place, Gotham FC
- Ayaka Kamashita — third place, Manchester City
