Home
Lamine Yamal has emerged as the favourite to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or after a stunning year. Spain’s World Cup triumph earlier this summer, combined with another successful La Liga campaign for Barcelona, has strengthened the young winger’s case for the prestigious individual award.
ADVERTISEMENT
The race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or is therefore finely balanced between Yamal’s trophy-laden year with club and country and Kane’s exceptional goalscoring form. Kane had earlier stated that it would be perfect to win the award. The Bayern Munich star also added that it's not up to him to win it. However, he added that he has done his part and now the rest depends on the votes.
Lamine Yamal backed for 2026 Ballon d’Or: ‘No one can be compared’
Super-agent Jorge Mendes has declared Barcelona and Spain star Yamal the clear favourite to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Mendes described the teenager as a “genius” unmatched by any other player this season. Speaking in Barcelona, Mendes said:
“The Ballon d’Or is for a genius, and Lamine Yamal is the only one who can win it this year.”
Mendes added:
“He’s a genius, no one can be compared after this season. It’s more than fair to consider him the one to win the Ballon d’Or 2026 after winning World Cup, La Liga and having a great season with Barcelona, one more time. He deserves it.”
The comments come with Yamal still only 19 years old. While Yamal’s international success has boosted his credentials, Bayern Munich striker Kane remains the current betting favourite after a prolific club season that included major silverware and Golden Boot honours.
Mendes’ strong endorsement adds further weight to the growing conversation around whether the teenage sensation can become one of the youngest winners in the award’s history.
ALSO READ: Mourinho reveals reason why Real Madrid didn't sign World Cup winner Rodri as Barcelona finalises deal
ADVERTISEMENT
