Experts debate top contenders for upcoming Ballon d'Or

The Ballon d'Or ceremony is set for 26 October in London, and bookmakers list Spain winger Lamine Yamal and England captain Harry Kane as the joint favourites. Yamal helped Barcelona win La Liga and was part of Spain's World Cup-winning squad, while Kane scored 73 goals for Bayern Munich and England during the season.

Other notable candidates include eight-time winner Lionel Messi of Inter Miami, France forward Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid, and several Paris Saint-Germain players who secured back-to-back European titles.

European football expert Guillem Balague said a PSG or Spanish player is almost certain to win, naming Yamal as the sole Spaniard deserving the award. He added that the PSG vote could be split among several teammates.

Julien Laurens highlighted a PSG forward’s impact in the Champions League, noting his decisive goals in multiple knockout rounds, but suggested the award might still go to Yamal despite mixed performances at the World Cup and early Champions League exit.

Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock also favoured Yamal for his role in Spain's World Cup triumph, while mentioning Michael Olise and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as strong contenders.

BBC Radio 5 Live guest Rory Smith argued that the award often follows the biggest trophy, pointing to Yamal’s World Cup win, though he personally preferred Kvaratskhelia for his club performances.

Former England striker Alan Shearer and ex-midfielder Danny Murphy both advocated for Harry Kane, citing his prolific scoring record for Bayern and England. Former Tottenham forward Andros Townsend and former England striker Ellen White echoed this view, emphasizing Kane’s goal tally and contributions in domestic and international competitions.

Norwegian journalist Lars Sivertsen expressed support for Kane, describing him as a leader and role model, but noted that the Ballon d'Or can be influenced by popularity.

The range of opinions underscores the competitive field ahead of the award ceremony.