Ballon d’Or 2026: ‘He’s a leader’ – Jose Mourinho names player in race to win award

Real Madrid manager, Jose Mourinho has insisted that midfielder, Jude Bellingham is in the race to win the Ballon d’Or.

According to Mourinho, Bellingham is a leader, and what he does as a midfielder is absolutely incredible.

The Portuguese made this statement after the England international scored in Real Madrid’s 4-0 win over Malaga in La Liga on Sunday.

“Bellingham is not only a top player but also a leader.

“He is in the Ballon d’Or race. What he does as a midfielder is absolutely incredible,” Mourinho said, as quoted by TNT Sports.

Bellingham has been incredible for Real Madrid and England so far this year.

He recorded seven goals and one assist for the Three Lions at the 2026 World Cup.