Harry Kane is a leading contender for the Ballon d'Or after a sensational season with Bayern Munich and England, but former France defender Willy Sagnol has warned that it would be a travesty if Kane wins the award ahead of his Bayern teammate Michael Olise.
Sagnol: Olise is the best in the world
Speaking to German outlet Bild, Sagnol said: “Michael Olise is the best in the world, far ahead of all other players. If he doesn't win the Ballon d'Or at the end of the year, something is seriously wrong with football.”
Olise, 24, joined Bayern Munich from Crystal Palace last summer and has formed a devastating partnership with Kane, helping the German club win a second consecutive Bundesliga title. The French winger has also impressed for France at the 2026 World Cup.
Kane's remarkable season
Kane has scored 66 goals in 56 games for Bayern Munich this season, becoming the club's top scorer and leading them to Bundesliga glory. At the World Cup, he became England's all-time leading scorer in the tournament with goals against Croatia and Panama.
The England captain told L'Equipe that winning the World Cup could boost his Ballon d'Or chances: “I'd probably say I'll be up there for sure. With the season I've had, I think with winning the three trophies, the numbers I've reached, I think I'll be in that conversation. If I win the World Cup on top of that, you would imagine it would be one of the England players.”
Ballon d'Or ceremony in London
This year's Ballon d'Or ceremony will be held in London to honour the 70th anniversary of the award and the late Sir Stanley Matthews, the inaugural winner. The event will take place later in 2026.
Kane is vying to become the first Englishman to win the Ballon d'Or since Michael Owen in 2001. However, competition is fierce, with other top players such as Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland also in contention.
