Ballon d’Or 2026: He has highest chances – Keita picks player to win award

Monza forward, Keita Balde, has named Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal as the player who should win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Speaking on El Chiringuito, the 31-year-old backed Yamal as discussion intensifies around football’s biggest individual prize.

“Lamine should win the Ballon d’Or,” Keita said. “I think he is the player today who, for me globally and individually, has the highest chances of taking home the Ballon d’Or.”

“I think it would be fair, it wouldn’t be a surprise at all because of how he plays football, how he inspires people and kids at his age.”

Yamal was among the 30 players shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or this year.

The 19-year-old, who won the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Spain, will battle the likes of Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe for the award.

The winner of the Ballon d’Or will be announced later this month in London.