Luis Enrique surprised everyone by choosing a name that does not usually receive the same media hype surrounding top forwards, asserting that his trophy haul and on-pitch impact make his nomination for the 2026 Ballon d’Or completely logical.
The Paris Saint-Germain manager considered Fabián Ruiz the most deserving player for the award this year, having combined success with the French club and a World Cup triumph with the Spanish national team.
The Spanish coach stated decisively: “Fabi has achieved almost everything; he won the World Cup, won the European Championship two years ago, claimed the UEFA Nations League, and lifted the Champions League in two consecutive seasons. There is no doubt in my mind… the Ballon d’Or should be his.”
Fabián Ruiz’s Stats with PSG and Spain
Ruiz participated in 34 matches for Paris Saint-Germain during the 2025-2026 season across various competitions, scoring two goals. He played 20 matches in the French Ligue 1, scoring one goal and providing 4 assists, contributing to his team’s league title and their second consecutive Champions League triumph.
In the 2026 World Cup, the Spanish midfielder appeared in all eight of his country’s matches, starting in 4 of them. He also scored a crucial goal against Belgium in the quarter-finals before solidifying his place in the starting lineup during the semi-final and final, helping Spain clinch the title.
The strength of the 30-year-old’s portfolio is not limited to the latest season; he previously won the 2023 UEFA Nations League and the 2024 European Championship, alongside the Champions League in 2025 and 2026, followed by the World Cup. This impressive tally prompted Enrique to demand he be awarded football’s most prestigious individual prize.
Top Contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or
Fabián faces stiff competition from several highly publicized names, led by Rodri, the World Cup’s Best Player, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé (the World Cup’s top scorer), Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The official 30-man shortlist is scheduled to be revealed in September, ahead of the Ballon d’Or ceremony on October 26, 2026, in the British capital, London.
