Former Paris Saint-Germain manager Christophe Galtier has backed three current stars from the French club to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or. The experienced coach believes Fabian Ruiz, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are all strong contenders for the prestigious individual honour.
Ousmane Dembele has firmly dismissed rumours of a fallout with France team-mate Kylian Mbappe following comments regarding the upcoming Ballon d'Or ceremony. Speculation suggested a frosty relationship had developed between the pair after Mbappe spoke to the media, but Dembele insists their close friendship remains completely intact as they reunite on international duty this week.
Michael Olise emerged as the match-winner with a clinical 88th-minute strike to give France a 1-0 win over Belgium. In a tactical battle at the Koning Boudewijnstadion, Les Bleus dominated possession and finally broke the deadlock through their substitutes.
Ousmane Dembele is set to take the captain’s armband for France in their upcoming Nations League encounter against Belgium on Monday. The Paris Saint-Germain winger steps into the leadership role following the withdrawal of regular skipper Kylian Mbappe due to injury.