Ibrahim Mazza nominated for Ballon d'Or best young talent award

Algerian attacking midfielder Ibrahim Mazza has been nominated for the Ballon d'Or best young talent award. The Bayer Leverkusen player, born in Berlin in 2005, has gained significant international attention following his rise through the German youth systems.

Mazza began his professional career with Hertha Berlin, where he scored 9 goals in 51 appearances before transferring to Bayer Leverkusen in 2025. His performances, including a notable role in a Champions League victory against Manchester City, have attracted interest from major European clubs like Atletico Madrid.

On the international stage, Mazza chose to represent Algeria over Germany, having previously played for German youth teams. He has since earned 21 caps for the Algerian national team, scoring during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and participating in the 2026 World Cup.