Luis Enrique has backed Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, while PSG captain Marquinhos has left Lamine Yamal out of his five favourites for the award.
Ruiz helped PSG win the Champions League and several domestic trophies before playing for Spain at the 2026 World Cup. Enrique believes those achievements put his midfielder in contention for football’s biggest individual prize.
“The Ballon d’Or! The Ballon d’Or for sure!” Enrique said when asked about Ruiz’s chances.
Marquinhos also backed Ruiz for the award, saying: “All that is missing is the Ballon d’Or, that’s it.”
Ruiz has collected major honours with PSG and Spain, including the Champions League, European Championship and Nations League. He also played a key role for PSG during their successful 2025-26 campaign.
Yamal remains one of the leading names in the 2026 Ballon d’Or race despite the omission from Marquinhos’ favourites. The Barcelona forward produced 26 goals and 21 assists during the 2025-26 season, while he also helped Spain win the 2026 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé and other leading players remain in contention for the award.
France Football will announce the 2026 Ballon d’Or winner at the ceremony in Paris on October 26, 2026.
