Ballon d’Or shortlist sparks global debate as Messi returns and Ronaldo, Salah miss out

The race to become the world’s best footballer in 2026 has officially begun after France Football revealed the 30-player shortlist for the Ballon d’Or, with the winner due to be announced at a ceremony on 26 October.

The nominations have intensified the battle between the game’s leading names, while also prompting surprise and criticism because of several high-profile omissions. Spain has the strongest representation, with six players included, and Lionel Messi has returned to the shortlist.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been left out for a fourth consecutive year, while Egypt forward Mohamed Salah is also absent despite finishing fourth in last year’s voting. Desire Doue, who won every available trophy with Paris Saint-Germain during the previous season, is another notable omission.

The announcement generated widespread discussion among newspapers and football supporters around the world, with several publications questioning the selection of players who had played decisive roles for their clubs and national teams.

Spanish reaction

Spanish newspaper Marca highlighted the country’s six nominees and welcomed Messi’s return to the Ballon d’Or race. However, it also expressed surprise at the absence of Barcelona pair Pedri and Raphinha.

Both players played important roles in Barcelona’s La Liga triumph last season, while Pedri also helped Spain win the World Cup. Marca also noted Ronaldo’s continued exclusion and Salah’s absence, as well as the decision not to select Doue after his trophy-laden campaign with Paris Saint-Germain.

Mundo Deportivo focused on Barcelona’s nominated players: Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Pau Cubarsi. The newspaper pointed out that the award has not been won by a Barcelona player since 2019, when Messi collected it for an eighth time.

It also suggested that Yamal has a strong chance of winning the prize for the first time, despite still being under 19. This is his third nomination, after he finished runner-up to Ousmane Dembele last year. The newspaper was nevertheless surprised that Pedri, Raphinha and Dani Olmo were not included.

Kane leads English challenge

In Britain, the Daily Mail drew attention to Harry Kane’s inclusion after the striker’s historic season with Bayern Munich. Kane scored 73 goals and led the club to the Bundesliga and cup titles, establishing himself as a serious contender for the award.

He faces competition from fellow England internationals Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham. The Mirror questioned whether the finest season of Kane’s career would be enough to make him the first Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen’s success in 2001.

Italian disappointment and French dominance

There was a more sombre reaction in Italy, where La Gazzetta dello Sport criticised the omission of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma while Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha was included.

The newspaper also expressed concern about the limited Italian presence on the shortlist. Inter Milan provide the only representative from Serie A, while a number of prominent Italian players were left out.

In France, L’Equipe celebrated Paris Saint-Germain’s strong showing. The club has become the first in history to have nine players included on the Ballon d’Or shortlist for two consecutive years.

German newspaper Bild highlighted Bayern Munich’s four nominees, praising the Bundesliga giants’ significant presence in the global award.

It also singled out teenager Lennart Karl, who has been nominated for the award for the best young player and was described as one of the most promising talents in German football.

The Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place on 26 October, when the winner of the 2026 award will be confirmed. Fans can also debate the nominations and wider football news through the Kooora forums.