Kylian Mbappe Could Anger Real Madrid As He Picks Rival Wonderkid As Favourite to Win Golden Boy

• Kylian Mbappe's Golden Boy Award choice will not sit well with Real Madrid fans
• The Frenchman, who leaves PSG this summer, picked a Barcelona star for the prize
• Meanwhile, Mbappe is expected to complete his dream transfer to Madrid in June

Kylian Mbappe might upset Real Madrid fans ahead of his anticipated summer transfer to the Spanish capital.

The French superstar recently shared his pick for the 2024 Golden Boy Award, a choice that could raise eyebrows among Madridistas.

Mbappe named Barcelona's Lamine Yamal as his favourite to win the prestigious award for players under the age of 21.

Yamal has flourished since breaking into Barcelona's first team, becoming a crucial part of Xavi Hernandez's setup.

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At just 16, the La Masia graduate is a regular starter on the right flank, boasting 17 goal contributions (seven goals and 10 assists) in 49 appearances across all competitions for La Blaugrana.

According to Football Benchmark, the Spanish wonderkid is a frontrunner to succeed Jude Bellingham as the best player under the age of 21 in the top 25 UEFA first divisions.

However, Yamal faces tough competition from Benfica's Joao Neves, Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, and Warren Zaire-Emery, who made France's squad for Euro 2024.

Mbappe hails Lamine, picks him for Golden Boy Award

Despite the competition, Mbappe firmly believes that Yamal is currently the best young talent in the world.

"Lamine is the best young talent in the world, without a doubt. The agility of the body and the movement he possesses are almost impossible for his age.

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Regardless of the rivalry between Mbappe's anticipated future club and Barcelona, the 25-year-old supported Lamine in his quest to win the top prize.

"I believe that he will be crowned the Golden Boy award this season, and as for me as the captain of France, I will give him my vote.

"I believe that the votes of all the captains will go to him because what he has done this season and at this age is extraordinary," he told French media, as per El Futbolero.

Lamine Yamal named the 'chosen one'

In a related publication, Sports Brief reported that FC Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez has identified Lamine Yamal as the 'chosen one'.

Xavi, who handed the La Masia graduate his debut start against Real Betis on April 29, 2023, expressed admiration for the young forward's talent and contribution to the team.

He also highlighted Yamal's transformative impact, describing him as a game-changer on the field.