The "Barcelona Special" is heading to the Middle East! On Thursday, December 25, 2025, reports from SPORT and Mundo Deportivo confirmed that Joan Laporta will accompany Lamine Yamal to Dubai for the 16th Globe Soccer Awards this weekend. The gala, held at the luxurious Atlantis The Royal on Sunday, December 28, promises to be a celebratory night for the Blaugrana after a dominant 2025.
The Agenda: Why Laporta is Traveling
While the trip is officially to support his players, the Barcelona president has a multi-layered mission in Dubai:
The Award Ceremony: Lamine Yamal is a heavy favorite to pick up a major individual honor (nominated for Best Men's Player and Best Forward), having already won the "Emerging Player" award in 2024.
The "Mendes" Meeting: Laporta is scheduled to meet with super-agent Jorge Mendes on the sidelines of the gala. With the January window opening in six days, the pair will reportedly discuss a short-term center-back solution to cover for the injured Andreas Christensen.
Women's Team Recognition: Laporta will also be there to represent Barcelona FemenÃ, who are widely expected to be named Best Women's Club after their record-breaking year.
Lamine Yamal: The Prince of Dubai
The 18-year-old sensation is already in Dubai enjoying a brief winter break before the gala.
The nomination: Yamal is competing against former teammate Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé, and his captain Raphinha for the top individual prize.
Winter Champions: Yamal arrives in Dubai in peak form, having scored the winner against Villarreal last Sunday to ensure Barcelona enters 2026 as Winter Champions of La Liga.
Fitness Update: After a successful radiofrequency treatment in November to resolve lingering groin issues, Yamal is reported to be at "100% fitness" and ready for the second half of the season.
Barcelona’s "Award Sweep" Potential
The Catalan giants dominate the 2025 shortlists across almost every major category:
Best Men's Player: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, Pedri.
Best Coach: Hansi Flick (The heavy favorite after winning the Treble).
Best Women's Player: Aitana BonmatÃ, Alexia Putellas, Caroline Graham Hansen.
Best Sporting Director: Deco.
Best Breakthrough Player: Pau CubarsÃ.
The Verdict: Laporta’s presence in Dubai is a statement of intent. By showing up with Yamal, he is cementing the teenager's status as the face of the club, while simultaneously working the "Mendes connection" to ensure Hansi Flick gets the defensive reinforcements needed for the 2026 title run.