Messi and Yamal named top Ballon d’Or 2026 contenders by Mendieta

Former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta has named Argentina captain Lionel Messi and Spanish youngster Lamine Yamal as the top two contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Speaking to Goal, Mendieta said Messi would secure a record-extending ninth Ballon d’Or if Argentina beats Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, which is being held in North America. He added that Yamal remains a strong candidate should Spain win a second World Cup title, noting Yamal’s crucial role for Barcelona and Spain despite injury challenges and a modest tournament record of one goal in seven matches. Mendieta also highlighted Mikel Oyarzabal as another standout performer who could be considered if Spain triumphs. Messi has so far scored eight goals and provided four assists in the ongoing tournament. The Ballon d’Or outcome, according to Mendieta, hinges largely on World Cup performance, making the upcoming final a decisive factor for the award.

This matters because the Ballon d’Or remains football’s most prestigious individual honour, and the upcoming World Cup final could directly shape its outcome. For fans, understanding how tournament success influences the award helps set realistic expectations for their favourite players’ accolades. It also highlights how individual brilliance is weighed against team success in football’s highest individual recognition.

Will Messi’s potential ninth Ballon d’Or motivate you to follow Argentina’s final more closely, or will Yamal’s underdog story make you root for Spain’s chances?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/18/ballon-dor-2026-mendieta-names-top-two-players-to-win-award/