‘It’s a global scandal’ – Deco hits out after Pedri and Raphinha miss out on Ballon d’Or nominations

Gill Clark Gill Clark is the site manager of Barca Blaugranes and joined in 2017. She has worked in sports media as a writer and editor for the best part of two decades and has been in love with the beautiful game for as long as she can remember.

Barcelona sporting director Deco has hit out after seeing Raphinha and Pedri left off the list of 2026 Ballon d’Or nominees.

The two players are vital for club and country but were not among the 30 players on the final list for the prestigious prize that was announced this week.

Deco says he can’t understand why the two Barcelona stars were not included.

“It’s a global scandal. I don’t understand the lists. Individual awards are unfair,” he told RAC1.

“Football, a collective sport, is difficult to individualise things. To see that Pedri is not here, with the talent he has, I don’t understand it.”

Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Pau Cubarsi have been nominated, with Deco hoping that Yamal scoops the award.

“Lamine must be the favourite for everything he has done with Barça and with the national team,” he added.

“He has had important moments. He arrived at the World Cup with an injury. Last season was key, he has been the best in LaLiga. For me, yes. I see no doubts.”