Ballon d’Or 2026: Chris Waddle names player who deserves to win award

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United midfielder, Chris Waddle, has named the player who deserves to win the Ballon d’Or this year.

Speaking to GOAL, Waddle insisted that England captain, Harry Kane should lift the Ballon d’Or because he had a phenomenal season with both club and country.

He also questioned why team trophies are viewed so highly when it comes to voting for the individual prize.

“I’m sorry, but you judge players on a season, and Harry Kane’s had a phenomenal season for Bayern Munich and England,” Waddle said.

“Why is he not being awarded it? Because he didn’t win a trophy, which is a team game, not an individual as the Ballon d’Or is. I don’t get that.

“The Ballon d’Or should always be the best player of the season. And Harry Kane, from my eyes, should lift it.”

Kane won the Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich last season and scored over 70 goals overall for club and country.

The former Tottenham star also won the bronze medal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.