Wesley Sneijder, the renowned Dutch football legend, made headlines recently by predicting the winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or. He has placed his bets on Kylian Mbappé, rather than the young sensation Lamine Yamal.
Wesley Sneijder’s Bold Prediction for the 2026 Ballon d’Or
Sneijder is confident that the Real Madrid star will secure the prestigious accolade next year. He remarked, “With the way the scoring works now, I’m pretty sure Mbappé will win it hundred percent.” This statement comes in light of Mbappé’s evolution into a formidable striker, with a significant improvement in his overall performance.
Criteria Shift Influences Ballon d’Or Selection
The criteria for the Ballon d’Or were updated by France Football in 2022. These changes emphasize performance during the season, titles won, and impact during crucial moments. This new approach has opened opportunities for players like Mbappé, who is not only a prolific scorer but also showcases vital leadership qualities.
Lamine Yamal: A Rising Star
Despite his remarkable achievements, Lamine Yamal’s exclusion from Sneijder’s predictions surprised many fans. At just 18 years old, Yamal finished second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings, a notable achievement that emphasizes his talent. His youth and potential position him well for future accolades.
Other Contenders for the 2026 Award
While Yamal and Mbappé are central to the conversation, others are also in the mix. Harry Kane, the Bayern Munich forward, has emerged as a prominent candidate due to his stellar performance in the 2025-26 season.
- Kane has scored 24 goals in over 20 matches, solidifying his status among the world’s top scorers.
- His role goes beyond scoring; Kane is integral to Bayern Munich’s playmaking and overall team dynamics.
- Consistency during the remainder of the season will be vital for all contenders in their pursuit of the Ballon d’Or.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, maintaining high performance levels will be crucial for Yamal, Mbappé, and Kane. Each player’s ability to lead their teams to major titles, such as the Champions League, will significantly influence their chances of winning the coveted award.
Potential dark horses may include Erling Haaland and Raphinha, who could emerge as serious threats depending on their performances. As fans eagerly await the outcome, the 2026 Ballon d’Or race is shaping up to be an exciting contest.
