Why Dembélé's Ballon d'Or win over Yamal feels like the dawn of a new era

The Ballon d'Or award for 2023 saw a shift in the balance of power, with Ousmane Dembélé of Barcelona edging out Lamine Yamal of Real Madrid. Both players are known for their dynamic, attacking styles of play, which offer a refreshing contrast to the increasingly tactical nature of modern football. Dembélé's victory is seen as the dawning of a new era, where the emphasis is placed on creative, entertaining football rather than solely on pragmatic, defensive-minded tactics. Yamal, despite missing out on the top prize, has also emerged as a rising star, showcasing his exceptional talent and potential to shape the future of the game. The close race between the two young stars underscores the changing landscape of football, where a new generation of players is challenging the dominance of established superstars. This shift in the Ballon d'Or voting reflects the growing appreciation for a more exciting, free-flowing brand of football among fans and experts alike.