BALLON D’OR 2026: DEMBELE FAVOURITE TO WIN AWARD, SAYS MATTHÄUS
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By; Aina Daniel
Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthäus has tipped Paris Saint-Germain winger Ousmane Dembele as the leading contender for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
Matthäus believes Dembele has the edge over other contenders after helping PSG secure another UEFA Champions League title last season, strengthening his case for back-to-back Ballon d’Or honours.
The former Germany international also ruled out France captain Kylian Mbappe and Spain midfielder Rodri as likely winners of this year’s prestigious individual award.
Writing in his Sky Sports column, Matthäus said Rodri’s chances had been affected by Spain’s overall performance despite his influence in the team.
“Rodri was the commander of the FIFA World Cup-winning team, but I don’t think he will win the Ballon d’Or this year,” he said.
“Due to Spain’s team performance, the competition is very open. I think Dembele has an advantage, having won the Champions League again with PSG.”
He added that although Mbappe finished as the top scorer at the FIFA World Cup, his lack of silverware with Real Madrid could count against him.
“Mbappe was the top scorer in the FIFA World Cup, but he didn’t win any titles with Real Madrid. I would be surprised if he won the Ballon d’Or,” Matthäus stated.
The German football great also praised Bayern Munich duo Michael Olise and Harry Kane for their impressive campaigns.
According to him, Olise topped the assist charts in both the Bundesliga and the FIFA World Cup, while Kane finished as the Bundesliga’s highest scorer. Both players helped Bayern win the domestic double and also reached the FIFA World Cup semi-finals.
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