The last fully English player to win the game’s top prize was 25 years ago, when Michael Owen collected the Golden Ball. 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or power rankings have dropped, and it’s time for England to take the crown again. According to the new power rankings, maybe they already have.
Only Harry Kane is number one in the world power rankings.
The Bayern striker recorded staggering personal numbers throughout 2025 as he bagged 61 goals and 10 assists in 51 games for his German side. The number nine shirt in England has not had the greatest time in this sport and, despite failure on the world’s biggest stage in Qatar, sits number one on the rankings after his fantastic finishing as well as creativity. Elsewhere, England midfielder Jude Bellingham takes a well-placed spot within the top ten. The Real Madrid midfielder knows how to get it on with the biggest talents, as he is capable of big, special, and flawless shows with his current club or when he pulls on the shirt for England. The task remains difficult, though, as several top rivals remain in place: Rodri, who has recently completed his move to Barcelona; Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé remains highly thought of due to strong recent form; and new Barcelona talent Lamine Yamal may sweep panels up after success with Spain on the grandest stage of all.
Other English inclusions are still evident at this very early stage, as Declan Rice, Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka continue to have immense impact: Votes may be split, however, between the array of talent. For England to win, however, the narrative must align. Kane continues to offer unbelievable volume in front of goal, maintaining an advantage over players such as Mbappé and Rodri, so in 2026, this could finally be the year that the Three Lions end their barren individual run.
Source: The Guardian Football & Vanguard News Sports Desk (Ballon d’Or 2026 Power Rankings).
Leave a Reply