Ballon d’Or 2026: Xavi, Roberto Carlos, Gallas and Others Predict the Winner

Several football legends have revealed their choices for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

Barcelona icon Xavi, Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos, and other former stars have all named their preferred candidates for the award.

Paris Saint‑Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé was the winner of the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

In a recent “Legends” edition posted on the UEFA Champions League’s official X account ahead of the Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint‑Germain, several former players were asked which player they believed would take the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Xavi endorsed Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, while Carlos selected Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé.

Former Chelsea defender Ashley Cole and ex‑Liverpool goalkeeper David James tipped Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane.

Former Arsenal star Theo Walcott backed England midfielder Declan Rice, and ex‑Brazil goalkeeper Julio César chose Paris Saint‑Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Former Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic supported Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise, and ex‑Arsenal defender William Gallas urged Dembélé to win again.