I think you've literally pointed everything as far as Ballon d'or selection is concerned. The Journalist involved in this selection are literally humans, and we've seen them made a decision that has raised questions several times in different award year.

I just realized that this Yamal-Dembele's Ballon d'or debate is slightly similar to that of last year's selection. Rodri had enough talent and also won trophies, but Vini won the trophies that we usually use in predicting the Ballon d'or winner. A slight bias from our angle, but the voters made the decision.

I think same question might also rise up again if Yamal ends up winning it. Of course, he did exceptionally well and won trophies as well, but we all are still interested in using certain trophies to make our own predictions, and the Champion's league happens to be the major trophy. To everyone right now, Dembele is already the winner. And as for Yamal who is just 17, he has so many years ahead, and he looks very much like someone that can be consistent.