Ballon d’Or 2026: Flick names two Barcelona players who deserve to be shortlisted

Barcelona manager, Hansi Flick, has named two of his players who deserve to be shortlisted for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Speaking during his post-match interview after Barcelona defeated Feyenoord 5-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, Flick said Raphinha and Pedri deserved to be included in the nominees for the award.

Raphinha and Pedri were not named among the players shortlisted for this year’s Ballon d’Or on Monday.

“They are too good not to be there ,” Flick said.

“But we cannot change it. But they are fantastic players and deserve to be there.”

During the game against Feyenoord, Raphinha scored twice, with Pedri providing an assist.