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Barcelona sporting director Deco has taken to social media, to provide his response to the news of two leading members of Hansi Flick’s squad being left off the shortlist of candidates for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
The subject of the Golden Ball has of course taken its place centre stage in the chatter in Catalunya’s capital across the evening to date.
Upon the 30-man shortlist for the 2026 accolade being unveiled by France Football, a trio of Barcelona stars, namely Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Pau Cubarsí, featured prominently.
It was those Blaugrana stars left out, though, which quickly sparked backlash. Despite his La Liga and World Cup double, Pedri did not do enough to earn a spot on the list of nominees.
Also omitted was Raphinha, one of the most explosive performers in all of Europe over the early weeks of the new term.
And as alluded to above, news of as much has evidently not gone down well behind the scenes at the Spotify Camp Nou… Taking to the comments section of an Instagram post confirming this year’s Ballon d’Or candidates, Barca director Deco responded with a series of laughing emojis:
Conor Laird – GSFN
