Harry Kane earns Luis Diaz’s vote for the 2026 Ballon d’Or

Luis Diaz has named Bayern Munich team-mate Harry Kane as his leading choice to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, praising the England captain’s all-round contribution after another outstanding season.

The Colombia international was speaking to ESPN after a highly productive campaign with Bayern Munich. Diaz scored 26 goals and set up 19 more in 51 appearances across all competitions, a record that is expected to place him among the contenders for the prestigious individual award.

At 29, Diaz is widely expected to be included in the Ballon d’Or discussion following his excellent form. However, when asked about Kane’s prospects of claiming the prize, he gave an emphatic endorsement of the Bayern Munich striker.

“He’s the best in the world, without a doubt. He proved it throughout last season, and he has continued to show it for a long time,” Diaz said.

The winger highlighted Kane’s influence in several areas of the game, arguing that the forward offers far more than his goalscoring ability.

“The truth is that he can do everything, as I mentioned before. I admire him very much because he doesn’t make any mistakes. He motivates his team-mates to play, he runs, he defends, he scores goals, and he can even score from long range,” Diaz added.

Kane’s mentality was also central to Diaz’s assessment. The Colombia player said the England striker’s approach made him one of the strongest candidates for the award and expressed his hope that Kane would eventually win it.

“His mentality is excellent. So, for me, he is one of the leading candidates to win the Ballon d’Or. I hope he wins it and that we can all celebrate for him,” Diaz said.

Diaz’s comments came after a season in which he made a significant attacking contribution for Bayern Munich, recording 45 direct goal involvements in 51 matches when his goals and created goals are combined.

His own performances mean he is also expected to feature prominently among the names considered for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Nevertheless, Diaz made clear that Kane was his preferred candidate when asked to assess the competition for the honour.

The award has become the focus of attention following the individual campaigns of several leading players, with Diaz’s figures ensuring that his own name is part of the wider conversation. His public support for Kane adds a personal perspective to the debate within Bayern Munich.

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