World Cup triumph makes Luis de la Fuente favourite for 2026 Ballon d’Or coaching award

Luis de la Fuente has emerged as the leading candidate to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or award for the world’s best manager after guiding Spain to the World Cup title.

The Spain manager is competing against four high-profile rivals: Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery and Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany.

According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, de la Fuente is ahead of Luis Enrique and the other nominees before Monday’s awards ceremony in London.

World Cup success strengthens Spain manager’s case

De la Fuente’s strongest argument is Spain’s victory at the World Cup. His side beat Argentina 1-0 in the final, played on 19 July, to claim the trophy.

Spain completed the tournament unbeaten and conceded only one goal. Their campaign combined defensive resilience with the ability to settle major matches, strengthening the case for de la Fuente to receive the individual award.

The coach has also been credited with building a team that combines competitiveness and consistency. Spain maintained its level throughout the tournament before reaching the global final and lifting the trophy.

Those achievements have given de la Fuente an advantage in a contest featuring managers from some of Europe’s leading clubs.

Spanish delegation expected in London

De la Fuente is expected to attend Monday’s ceremony in London alongside Rafael Louzan, president of the Spanish Football Federation, and a sizeable delegation of federation officials.

Spain’s presence among the nominees is further underlined by the national team’s position at the top of the FIFA world rankings.

The team also holds a run of 43 consecutive official matches without defeat, another factor supporting de la Fuente’s position before the winner is announced.