Paris Saint-Germain’s successful defence of the UEFA Champions League title has significantly influenced the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with several PSG stars strengthening their claims for football’s most prestigious individual award.
Although the club season has concluded, the upcoming FIFA World Cup remains a crucial factor that could ultimately determine the winner.
10. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Harry Kane currently tops the rankings after enjoying a phenomenal campaign for Bayern Munich. The England captain scored 65 goals and provided seven assists, helping the German giants secure three domestic trophies. With England considered one of the favourites for the World Cup, Kane has a major opportunity to solidify his position as the frontrunner.
9. Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain)
The reigning Ballon d’Or holder has reignited his challenge despite dealing with injuries earlier in the season. Dembele was instrumental in PSG’s Champions League success, producing decisive performances throughout the knockout rounds. A strong World Cup campaign with France could further boost his chances of retaining the award.
8. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Barcelona’s teenage sensation remains one of the strongest contenders after another remarkable season. Yamal registered 25 goals and 20 assists while helping Barcelona win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. If he can overcome fitness concerns and excel with Spain at the World Cup, his chances will increase significantly.
7. Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain)
Vitinha has emerged as one of Europe’s top midfielders, playing a vital role in PSG’s domestic and continental success. The Portuguese midfielder contributed seven goals and 10 assists, with his impressive Champions League final performance further enhancing his credentials.
6. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
Olise continued his impressive rise at Bayern Munich, recording 23 goals and 33 assists during a highly successful season. His consistent performances have also earned him a regular role in the French national team ahead of the World Cup.
5. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)
Despite Real Madrid ending the season without silverware, Mbappe maintained exceptional individual form. The French forward scored 48 goals and supplied 10 assists, keeping himself firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation. A successful World Cup with France could finally deliver the award he has long pursued.
4. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain)
The Georgian winger was one of PSG’s standout performers during their Champions League-winning campaign, producing several crucial displays in the knockout stages. However, Georgia’s absence from the World Cup may limit his chances of climbing higher in the rankings.
3. Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich)
Diaz has enjoyed a sensational debut season at Bayern Munich following his move from Liverpool. The Colombian attacker contributed 28 goals and 25 assists as Bayern secured a domestic treble. His World Cup performances with Colombia could further strengthen his case.
2. Declan Rice (Arsenal)
Rice played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s Premier League title-winning season and their journey to the Champions League final. His influence in midfield has placed him among the world’s elite players, and England’s World Cup campaign could further enhance his Ballon d’Or credentials.
1. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Although Manchester City failed to regain the Champions League, Haaland remains a major contender after another prolific season. The Norwegian striker scored 51 goals and provided 10 assists while helping City win the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. With Norway qualified for the World Cup, he still has a valuable opportunity to impress voters on the biggest stage.
As things stand, the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or remains wide open. While PSG’s Champions League success has reshaped the rankings, the upcoming FIFA World Cup is expected to play a decisive role in determining who ultimately claims football’s most coveted individual prize.