Ballon d’Or 2026 race: Top contender is not Yamal or Mbappé
The latest update on the Ballon d’Or 2026 race has surprised many — neither Lamine Yamal nor Kylian Mbappé is currently leading the pack.
5. Nuno Mendes (PSG)
2025/26 season: 3 goals, 4 assists, 2 clean sheets. Winner of the UEFA Super Cup.
At 23, Nuno Mendes continues to establish himself as one of the world’s most complete full-backs. Even though he hasn’t always been a regular starter this season, his performances have been consistent and decisive when called upon. His balance between defense and attack has been crucial for PSG.
Mendes is also expected to play a vital role for Portugal at the upcoming World Cup, and with his current form, a major club title in 2026 seems within reach.
4. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
2025/26 season: 3 goals, 8 assists.
Lamine Yamal is on course to become the youngest Ballon d’Or winner in history. His technical brilliance, creativity, and calmness under pressure have made him one of Barcelona’s brightest stars. His performances at the end of last season’s Champions League were a showcase of maturity beyond his age.
However, critics argue that he still needs more decisive moments in major matches. There are also concerns about the physical strain of being overused at a young age. If he remains fit, Yamal has the potential to lead both Barcelona and Spain to silverware — and cement his status as one of football’s future icons.
3. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
2025/26 season: 24 goals, 3 assists.
After a quieter year by his own standards, Haaland has come back in “beast mode” this season. He’s once again terrorizing defenses across Europe, leading Manchester City’s attack with unmatched power and precision.
The Norwegian striker is closing in on his third Golden Boot in four seasons, and no defender has yet found a way to contain him. With Norway likely to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Haaland could use that global stage to strengthen his case for the Ballon d’Or — provided he keeps up his club form.
2. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
2025/26 season: 18 goals, 4 assists.
Since his breakout at Monaco, Mbappé has always been destined for the Ballon d’Or. Now at 27, he remains one of the world’s most electric forwards. His move to Real Madrid has reignited his hunger for greatness, and he’s been instrumental in keeping Los Blancos at the top of La Liga.
The French captain continues to deliver when it matters most, both for club and country. With another strong season and a good World Cup campaign, Mbappé could finally capture the award that has long eluded him.
1. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
2025/26 season: 23 goals, 3 assists. Winner of the German Super Cup.
Harry Kane has often been underestimated, but the English striker is now proving his doubters wrong. Having already lifted domestic silverware, Kane is hungry for more — and his start to the season has been nothing short of phenomenal.
Beyond his prolific goal scoring, Kane’s all-round playmaking and leadership have elevated Bayern’s attacking game. If he maintains this level, more trophies could follow by the end of the season.
For England fans, all eyes are on their captain to stay fit and carry his nation’s dream of ending a 60-year World Cup drought. Should he lead both club and country to success, the Ballon d’Or might finally be his.