Atletico Madrid midfielder Alex Baena has revealed his top three contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, naming Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Lionel Messi as his favourites ahead of the award ceremony next month.
The Ballon d’Or organisers have already published a shortlist of 30 players who will compete for the prestigious title. Baena’s selection highlights a mix of emerging talent and seasoned veterans.
“My Ballon d’Or top 3? Lamine, Rodri, and Messi,” Baena told DAZN Futbol. “Lamine is the best in the world. Rodri proved it at the World Cup – and Messi, with what he’s doing at 39 years old, it’s very hard for any player to do the same.”
Baena praised Yamal for his world‑class performances, Rodri for his impact at the World Cup, and Messi for maintaining a high level of play at 39. Among the trio, Yamal has yet to win the award, Rodri has one Ballon d’Or to his name, while Messi holds a record eight titles.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
