According to Cadena SER, journalist Tomás believes that Barcelona's support for Yamal could split pro-Barcelona votes, thereby benefiting Mbappé in the Ballon d'Or race.

The journalist stated, "I think Barcelona's strategy for the Ballon d'Or will hand the award to him. What Barcelona is doing is scattering the votes that would clearly have gone to Rodri. By openly supporting Yamal, pro-Barcelona votes will be split between Rodri and Yamal."

He has stated on more than one occasion that, in his opinion, the Ballon d'Or should belong to Rodri, given his outstanding performance at the Copa América where he was named the tournament's best player. However, Barcelona's strategy might cost Rodri the opportunity. Roncero said, "Rodri winning the Ballon d'Or is because Vinicius did not get the majority of Real Madrid votes, with many people voting for Bellingham and Carvajal, who ranked third and fourth respectively. It was this split in votes that gave the Ballon d'Or to Rodri. It's like in 2010, when Xavi and Iniesta split the votes, and the award went to Messi."

The journalist also pointed out that if Mbappé wins this year's Ballon d'Or, Real Madrid fans might react indifferently, as Mbappé has not played a decisive role in Real Madrid's crucial matches. Roncero commented, "Obviously, if Real Madrid had won both their home game against Betis and the derby, and Mbappé had scored two goals in each match, Real Madrid fans would be more enthusiastic about voting. I also admit that if Mbappé wins, it would be some consolation for Real Madrid fans, because at least the award wouldn't go to Barcelona again. I hope he wins, because it would be one of the few pieces of good news for us Real Madrid fans at the start of the season."

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