Ballon d’Or 2026: Ex-Leeds United winger, Mike Grella names winner, top five

Former Leeds United and Brentford winger, Mike Grella, has named the player he believes should win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Grella also named the players he believes should finish in the top five of the Ballon d’Or ranking.

“Kylian Mbappe [fifth position], impossible to deny his talent and number. His numbers are ridiculous, but everywhere he goes, it seems that the Champions League runs away from him.

“Lionel Messi [fourth position] for what he was able to do at his age in this year’s World Cup was incredible, the amount of goals, the assists and how he affects the game. Rodri [third position] big reason why Spain won the World Cup.

“Khvicha Kvaratskhelia [second position], he would probably be number one if Yamal wasn’t around. He is one of the most talented players on the planet. And then Lamine Yamal [first position]. He is far more talented than the rest,” Grella said via CBS Sports Golazo while naming his top five Ballon d’Or ranking.

The winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or will be announced on October 26 in London.