RismadarVoice Reporters
September 27, 2026
Super Eagles players George Ilenikhena and Arthur Okonkwo have named their preferred contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or award.
The prestigious individual football prize is scheduled to be presented next month, with 30 players shortlisted for the honour.
Among the leading names on the list are Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal.
Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé won the 2025 Ballon d’Or after finishing ahead of Yamal.
Asked to identify his favourites for this year’s award, Ilenikhena backed both Mbappé and Kane, saying either player could emerge victorious.
“This year, I have many players like Mbappé and Kane. They can both win the Ballon d’Or this year,” Ilenikhena said.
Okonkwo, however, backed Mbappé for the award, pointing to the France captain’s goalscoring record and overall performances.
“Kylian Mbappe. Because he scored the most goals and everything. He is the best player this season,” Okonkwo said.
The players’ selections represent their personal preferences, with the eventual winner to be determined through the Ballon d’Or voting process.
The 2026 ceremony will bring together some of the biggest names in world football as the successor to Dembélé is crowned.
