Saudi Pro League stars Sadio Mane and Julian Quinones have earned landmark nominations for the 2026 Ballon d'Or following superb domestic and international campaigns. The Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah forward duo lead a strong RSL contingent recognised by France Football, with goalkeepers Yassine Bounou and Edouard Mendy also shortlisted for the Yashin Trophy.
Michael Olise has openly disagreed with Thierry Henry's recent comments regarding the best player in world football. While the France legend claimed Olise outperformed his team-mate last year, the Bayern Munich winger firmly rejected that notion, throwing his full support behind Harry Kane to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or ahead of Kylian Mbappé after a sensational campaign.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has boldly claimed that Lamine Yamal deserves to win the Ballon d'Or following his record-breaking performance in the Champions League. The teenage sensation was the catalyst as the Catalan giants dismantled Feyenoord 5-1 to open their European campaign in emphatic fashion.