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BBC pundits split over Ballon d'Or favourite Lamine Yamal
BBC Sport asked several football experts to identify who they believe should claim the showpiece award. Guillem Balague predicts Yamal will win, citing his individual performances and collective trophies with Spain. Julien Laurens argues Khvicha Kvaratskhelia deserves the prize for his outstanding Champions League campaign, despite acknowledging Yamal's popularity. Stephen Warnock also favours Kvaratskhelia but admits Yamal will likely secure the vote. Rory Smith notes the award generally goes to someone who has won the biggest trophy, pointing to the World Cup. Alan Shearer, Danny Murphy, and Andros Townsend all back Harry Kane, highlighting his sensational numbers for Bayern Munich and England. Andros Townsend specifically notes Kane scored 73 goals in 65 games, including 36 in the Bundesliga. Ellen White and Lars Sivertsen also support Kane, praising his leadership and extraordinary statistics. The debate highlights the tension between individual brilliance, team success, and popularity in the final voting process.
The Transfer Siren · 26 October 2026
BBC Sport asked several football experts to identify who they believe should claim the showpiece award. Guillem Balague predicts Yamal will win, citing his individual performances and collective trophies with Spain. Julien Laurens argues Khvicha Kvaratskhelia deserves the prize for his outstanding Champions League campaign, despite acknowledging Yamal's popularity. Stephen Warnock also favours Kvaratskhelia but admits Yamal will likely secure the vote. Rory Smith notes the award generally goes to someone who has won the biggest trophy, pointing to the World Cup. Alan Shearer, Danny Murphy, and Andros Townsend all back Harry Kane, highlighting his sensational numbers for Bayern Munich and England. Andros Townsend specifically notes Kane scored 73 goals in 65 games, including 36 in the Bundesliga. Ellen White and Lars Sivertsen also support Kane, praising his leadership and extraordinary statistics. The debate highlights the tension between individual brilliance, team success, and popularity in the final voting process.
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