Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has been crowned the world's best player, ending a quarter-century wait for an English Ballon d'Or winner. The 33-year-old beat Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to the prestigious prize at a dazzling ceremony in London, sparking widespread celebration and high-profile tributes led by Prince William.
Harry Kane made history on Monday night by becoming the first English player in a quarter-century to secure the Ballon d'Or, but the celebrations have been met with a sharp critique from Samir Nasri. Despite a record-breaking debut season in Germany, the former Manchester City midfielder believes the striker lacks the decisive edge required for the game's ultimate individual honour.
Thomas Tuchel has led the tributes to Harry Kane after the England captain was officially crowned the best player in the world at the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony. The Three Lions boss expressed his immense pride as his talismanic striker secured the prestigious individual accolade following a record-breaking year for club and country.
After netting over 70 goals for club and country during the 2025-26 season, the former Tottenham striker was awarded the Golden Ball in London on Monday
James Trafford delivered a phenomenal performance to strengthen his case to permanently dislodge Jordan Pickford as England's number one goalkeeper after Leeds United secured a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Sunderland. Despite ferocious winds at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, Trafford produced four vital saves to keep a clean sheet and underline his international credentials.
England head coach Thomas Tuchel has offered his full support to the three Three Lions stars currently vying for the 2026 Ballon d'Or. As the prestigious ceremony prepares to land in London for a historic 70th-anniversary celebration, the German tactician believes any of his nominated trio would be a worthy winner.
England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford revisited five of his most iconic international appearances, ranging from debut nerves to high-stakes World Cup drama. The Three Lions star highlighted historic penalty shootouts and playing in front of 90,000 hostile fans in Mexico.
Thomas Tuchel could soon lose his trusted assistant Anthony Barry, as the England coach is attracting serious interest from several Premier League clubs. Barry recently signed a contract extension ahead of the upcoming European Championship, but an opportunity to become a top-flight manager might tempt him away from the Three Lions setup in the near future.
Former Leeds United defender Charlie Cresswell insists Rennes are capable of going all the way in the Europa League this season as he continues to thrive in French football. The 24-year-old centre-back also remains determined to earn a senior international call-up following his impressive rise in Ligue 1 over the past two years.
Jordan Henderson has no intention of hanging up his international boots just yet, insisting that his recent move to Chelsea has provided the perfect platform to prove his doubters wrong. The 36-year-old midfielder, who was recently overlooked for Nations League selection, believes his performances at Stamford Bridge can force him back into Thomas Tuchel’s plans.
Harry Kane has reportedly reached a verbal agreement to extend his stay at Bayern Munich following a sensational form with the Bundesliga champions. The England captain is set to commit his future to the German giants on a new deal, despite a minor disagreement regarding the final length of the contract.
Jordan Henderson has been a divisive character at times over the course of his domestic and international career - mainly among supporters - but top managers such as Jurgen Klopp, Thomas Tuchel and Xabi Alonso all love him. Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin has explained to GOAL why that is the case, with the ex-Liverpool captain having moved to Stamford Bridge as a free agent in 2026.
Michael Owen has explained to GOAL when Jude Bellingham could become England’s GOAT. Roy Keane claimed recently, after watching the 23-year-old on international duty, that the all-action midfielder is on course to be "one of the greatest players of all time". Former Real Madrid and Three Lions star Owen agrees with that rather bold assessment.
Former England head coach Sir Gareth Southgate has dismissed the prospect of returning to top-flight club management after stepping away from the international dugout. The 56-year-old tactician has remained out of the game since resigning from his post with the Three Lions following their defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
Former England right-back Danny Mills has told GOAL who his preferred option to fill that position would be, with Trent Alexander-Arnold back in the fold and competing with the likes of Reece James and Tino Livramento for a regular starting berth. The Three Lions are looking to build on their semi-final run at the 2026 World Cup, with positive progress being made in UEFA Nations League competition.
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