Ballon d’Or 2026: Football Legends Split as Xavi, Roberto Carlos and Others Reveal Their Picks

The race for the 2026 Ballon d'Or appears more open than ever, with some of football's most respected former stars backing different candidates to claim the sport's most prestigious individual award.

In a special "Legends Edition" feature shared on the UEFA Champions League's official X account ahead of the final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, a host of football icons were asked to name the player they believe deserves to win this year's Ballon d'Or.

The responses revealed a fascinating divide among the legends, highlighting the depth of talent currently competing at the highest level of the game.

Former Barcelona captain and manager Xavi threw his support behind Lamine Yamal, believing the teenage sensation has done enough to merit football's top individual honour.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos backed fellow Madrid star Kylian Mbappé, whose goalscoring exploits continue to place him among the game's elite performers.

Former Chelsea and England defender Ashley Cole and ex-Liverpool goalkeeper David James both selected Harry Kane, citing the Bayern Munich striker's remarkable consistency in front of goal.

In one of the more surprising selections, former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott chose Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice, highlighting the growing recognition of midfielders who influence matches beyond goals and assists.

Former Brazil goalkeeper Júlio César picked PSG winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, while ex-Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitić backed Bayern Munich's Michael Olise.

The only legend to predict a successful title defence was former Arsenal defender William Gallas, who believes PSG star Ousmane Dembélé can win back-to-back Ballon d'Or awards after another impressive campaign.

No Clear Favourite Emerging

The wide range of selections underlines just how competitive the Ballon d'Or race has become.

Unlike previous years when a single player often dominated the conversation, the current field includes prolific goalscorers, creative playmakers, dynamic midfielders, and emerging young stars. From Mbappe's goals to Yamal's brilliance, Kane's consistency, and Dembele's influence for PSG, each candidate has a compelling case.

Opinion: The Champions League Effect Could Be Decisive

While individual performances remain important, history suggests that success in major competitions often plays a crucial role in Ballon d'Or voting.

That reality may give PSG players such as Dembele and Kvaratskhelia a significant advantage following the club's latest Champions League triumph. However, voters are also known to reward exceptional individual campaigns, which keeps players like Mbappe, Kane, and Yamal firmly in contention.

Perhaps the most interesting pick is Declan Rice. Walcott's choice reflects a growing appreciation for players whose impact cannot always be measured by goals alone. Modern football increasingly values leadership, tactical intelligence, and control of matches—qualities Rice has displayed throughout the season.

The fact that so many legends selected different winners suggests there is no overwhelming favourite. And that uncertainty is precisely what makes this year's Ballon d'Or race one of the most intriguing in recent memory.

Whether it is the experience of Dembele, the brilliance of Yamal, the goals of Kane and Mbappe, or the rise of stars like Kvaratskhelia and Olise, the final decision is likely to spark debate long after the winner is announced.