Ballon d'Or 2026 Power Rankings

The 2026 Ballon d'Or race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in years. With Europe’s biggest stars already making their mark in the opening months of the season, the early power rankings give us a glimpse of who could be lifting football’s most prestigious individual trophy.

From proven legends like Kylian Mbappé and Mohamed Salah to emerging stars such as Bradley Barcola and Serhou Guirassy, the mix of names highlights just how wide open this year’s race could become. Paris Saint-Germain's and France's national team forward Ousmane Dembélé won the 2025 Ballon d'Or, so who is going to take the trophy next year?
Ballon d'Or 2026 Power Rankings

1. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)

Mbappé’s second season at Real Madrid, and he is continuing the hype. The French superstar has netted five goals, provided an assist in La Liga, and also struck twice in the Champions League. Beyond the numbers, his pace and flair have transformed Madrid’s attack, helping them sit at the top of the league. If he keeps this form up, he could finally secure the Ballon d’Or that has been expected of him for years.

2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

Lamine Yamal has emerged as one of Barcelona’s newest and best sensations. With two goals and two assists in La Liga so far this season, he combines flair, creativity, and fearlessness against seasoned defenders. His ability to make decisive contributions at such a young age highlights his immense potential. If he maintains this form, Yamal could soon become a serious Ballon d’Or contender.

3. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)

Haaland remains a goal machine, starting the Premier League campaign with six goals in just five matches. Add a Champions League goal to that tally, and the Norwegian is once again proving why he’s one of the deadliest strikers in world football. His relentless finishing ability makes him a constant threat, and with City’s dominance in both domestic and European competitions, he’s firmly in the race.

4. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)

Kane has settled in seamlessly at Bayern Munich. The English striker has already bagged eight goals and three assists in the Bundesliga, as well as scoring twice in the Champions League. His all-round play—combining lethal finishing with clever link-up—has made him the centrepiece of Bayern’s attack. If Bayern dominate domestically and make a run in Europe, Kane’s case for the Ballon d’Or will only get stronger.

5. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

At 33, Salah shows no signs of slowing down. The Liverpool talisman has contributed two goals and two assists in the Premier League and added both a goal and an assist in Europe. His consistency season after season keeps him among the elite, and if Liverpool mount a serious challenge for silverware, Salah’s influence will make him a strong contender.

6. Raphinha (Barcelona)

Raphinha has started the season brightly for Barcelona, scoring three goals and adding two assists in La Liga. His creativity and directness give Barça an edge in attack, and his ability to deliver in decisive moments is starting to earn him recognition beyond the Camp Nou. If Barcelona advances further in Europe, Raphinha's standing could significantly increase in the Ballon d'Or competition.

7. Ferran Torres (Barcelona)

Another Barcelona forward making headlines is Ferran Torres. With four goals and an assist to his name in La Liga, he is showing a sharper, more confident side to his game this season. Often seen as a rotation player, Torres is now pushing for a regular starting role, and his form could make him one of the dark horses in this year’s rankings.

8. Luis Díaz (Bayern Munich)

A new arrival in Munich, Luis Díaz has started to make an impression with three goals and two assists in the Bundesliga. Known for his explosiveness and flair on the wing, Díaz brings a different dimension to Bayern’s attack. While he may not be among the favourites yet, continued consistency could see him rise quickly in the rankings.

9. Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain)

At PSG, Bradley Barcola is emerging as one of Ligue 1’s most exciting young players. With three league goals and an assist in the Champions League already, the 23-year-old is showing maturity beyond his years. Playing alongside big names, he’s carving out his own identity and could become a breakout star in this Ballon d’Or race.

10. Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan)

Thuram has been a force for Inter Milan, combining strength and finesse in attack. He’s already tallied three goals and an assist in Serie A while adding two goals in the Champions League. His performances are helping Inter stay competitive on all fronts, and his mix of power and intelligence makes him one to watch in this year’s rankings.