In brief
The Ballon d’Or, slated for 26 October in London, has sparked a lively debate. Bookmakers have 19‑year‑old Lamine Yamal and England captain Harry Kane as the biggest favourites, while pundits discuss the merits of other candidates such as Kylian Mbappé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Expert Guillem Balague argues Yamal will win because of Spain’s World Cup triumph; Julien Laurens feels Kvaratskhelia’s Champions League brilliance should secure the trophy. Meanwhile, former stars Alan Shearer, Danny Murphy and Andros Townsend back Kane for his goal‑scoring haul across Bayern Munich, England, and the World Cup. With so many arguments on the table, fans are eager to see who finally lifts the coveted award.
The world’s most prestigious football award is set to glow on Saturday in London – but who will be the one handed it? Bookmakers have Portugal‑born Spanish winger Lamine Yamal (19) and England captain Harry Kane tied at the top of the favourite list, with a handful of other big names hovering in the mix.
Yamal, a Barcelona product, helped Spain win the 2026 World Cup and the club clinched La Liga. Kane, on the other hand, has already slotted 73 goals for Bayern Munich and England and impressively netted six at the World Cup.
Other serious challengers include France’s Kylian Mbappé – now with Real Madrid – and the ever‑promising Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from the Paris St‑Germain chair‑man.
Pundits’ Picks
Guillem Balague
"Yamal will win. He’s the only Spaniard with the World Cup crown. PSG have plenty of strong players, so votes will split. Finish line: Yamal."
Julien Laurens
"Kvaratskhelia’s Champions League heroics are vivid, but Yamal's charisma might edge him out. I’d lean towards Yamal as winner, but Kvaratskhelia deserves a shout‑out."
Stephen Warnock
"Yamal deserves the trophy for the World Cup win. Of course, Michael Olise and Kvaratskhelia are in the mix – but Yamal leads my pick."
Rory Smith
"The world cup factor keeps Yamal in front, but Kvaratskhelia’s club form could give him the edge if voters favour European club success over continental glory."
Alan Shearer
"Kane’s numbers across Bayern and England say it all – he should lift the Ballon d’Or."
Danny Murphy
"Kane has shown world‑class goal‑scoring this season – a clear case for the award."
Andros Townsend
"From 73 goals to a World Cup semi‑final hero, Kane’s story fits the Ballon d’Or narrative perfectly."
Ellen White
"I’d love to see Kane win for his goal records. Yamal will win someday – he’s already made history at 19."
Lars Sivertsen
"Kane deserves it. He’s a leader, but the Ballon d’Or is a popularity contest – he may need to stand out more publicly to win."
With so many passionate arguments and top talents in the running, the football world is waiting to see which player finally carries the Ballon d’Or into the winner’s circle. Who do you think will emerge victorious? Join the conversation on snapscope.news and let us know your pick!
Image credit: Getty Images
