10 Players in the Race for This Year’s Ballon d’Or

With the 2025-26 season approaching its climax and the World Cup on the horizon, the race for the Ballon d’Or is heating up.

Several standout performers have delivered remarkable individual displays, while team success continues to shape the competition.

Notably, Bayern Munich players have already secured this season’s Bundesliga title, strengthening the Ballon d’Or credentials of their stars.

Rankings so far:

1. Harry Kane

2025-26 season: 55 goals, six assists

Trophies: Bundesliga champion, DFL-Supercup

There will always be those who don’t fully appreciate Harry Kane, but now that he has finally ended his long wait for major silverware, the Bayern Munich striker looks determined to secure individual recognition.

As well as scoring at a record-breaking pace, Kane has showcased his all-round game to devastating effect.

With Bayern already crowned Bundesliga champions, further silverware could strengthen his Ballon d’Or case.

England fans will also be counting on their captain to lead the national team at the upcoming World Cup.

2. Michael Olise

2025-26 season: 19 goals, 31 assists

Trophies: Bundesliga champion, DFL-Supercup

Michael Olise has made a seamless transition since joining Bayern Munich, emerging as one of the Bundesliga’s most dangerous attacking players.

His creativity and composure in big matches, especially in the Champions League, have made him indispensable.

With Bayern already lifting the Bundesliga title, Olise’s influence could push him even higher in the Ballon d’Or rankings.

3. Kylian Mbappe

2025-26 season: 46 goals, nine assists

Kylian Mbappe has long been tipped to win the Ballon d’Or, and this could finally be his year. Despite challenges faced by Real Madrid, Mbappe has carried the team with consistent goal-scoring performances.

With a strong history in World Cup tournaments, his performances on the international stage could prove decisive.

4. Lamine Yamal

2025-26 season: 24 goals, 20 assists

Trophies: Supercopa de España

Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal continues to redefine expectations at FC Barcelona.

Despite Barcelona’s Champions League exit, Yamal’s consistency and creativity keep him firmly among the favourites, especially if he delivers standout performances at the World Cup.

Also Read: No Messi, No Ronaldo: Footballers Who Scored Stunning Goals Directly From Corner Kicks

5. Luis Diaz

2025-26 season: 26 goals, 20 assists

Trophies: Bundesliga champion, DFL-Supercup

Former Liverpool FC forward Luis Diaz has thrived since joining Bayern Munich.

His partnership with Harry Kane has been instrumental in Bayern’s Bundesliga title win, while his Champions League performances have caught the attention of voters.

Harry Kane,Michael Olise, and Kylian Mbappe are Ballon d’Or contenders. PHOTO/Football Accs

6. Erling Haaland

2025-26 season: 46 goals, nine assists

Trophies: Carabao Cup

Erling Haaland remains one of the most feared strikers in world football.

Despite Manchester City suffering Champions League disappointment, Haaland’s prolific scoring record and Norway’s World Cup qualification keep him firmly in contention.

7. Ousmane Dembele

2025-26 season: 16 goals, nine assists

Trophies: Trophée des Champions, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Intercontinental Cup

Injuries have disrupted Ousmane Dembele, but the reigning Ballon d’Or winner has still delivered key moments for Paris Saint-Germain.

If PSG add more silverware this season, Dembele could still climb higher in the rankings.

Also Read: Football Stars Who Have Registered a Hat-Trick of Assists in One Match

8. Julian Alvarez

2025-26 season: 19 goals, 10 assists

Julian Alvarez has enjoyed an eventful season at Atletico Madrid, highlighted by decisive performances in European competitions.

With more opportunities to shine in cup competitions and the World Cup, he remains a strong contender.

9. Vitinha

2025-26 season: Seven goals, 10 assists

Trophées: Trophée des Champions, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Intercontinental Cup

Vitinha has evolved into one of the world’s finest midfielders at Paris Saint-Germain.

His influence in midfield has been critical to PSG’s continued dominance and success across competitions.

10. Declan Rice

2025-26 season: Six goals, 13 assists

Declan Rice has become a cornerstone for Arsenal FC, delivering consistent performances both defensively and offensively.

His leadership and versatility make him indispensable, while England’s World Cup ambitions could further boost his Ballon d’Or chances.

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Raphina, Dembele, Haaland are all 2025/2026 Ballon d’Or contenders. PHOTO/Football Accs