Luis Diaz Backs Harry Kane for 2026 Ballon d'Or After Stunning 73-Goal Season

Luis Diaz, winger for Bayern Munich, has openly supported his teammate Harry Kane as the top contender to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or. The English striker dazzled this past season with an incredible total of 73 goals combined for club and country, sparking admiration from Diaz who shares a locker room with him in Bavaria.

Diaz Impressed by Kane’s Mindset and Performance

The Colombian star praised Kane's ruthless goal-scoring ability, which Diaz finds even more remarkable having witnessed it firsthand during daily training sessions. Before becoming teammates, Diaz faced Kane as a rival in the Premier League, but now he sees a new level of dedication up close.

Diaz expressed to ESPN how Kane's relentless work ethic and mentality stood out: "I already knew he scored loads of goals, but being around him every single day, seeing what he does in training, and watching his mentality - I think that dazzled me even more." Summarizing Kane’s quality, Diaz said: "Brutal, I don't know, magnificent. For me, there's no description. Sometimes I can't find the perfect word to describe him."

Backing Kane as the Leading Ballon d'Or Candidate

Looking ahead to the London ceremony next month, Diaz declared Kane the frontrunner for football's highest individual honour: "For me, he is the number one candidate to win it. Hopefully, he can achieve it."

Diaz Proud of His Own Ballon d'Or Shortlist Nomination

Diaz himself celebrates his inclusion on the 30-man Ballon d'Or shortlist, calling it a milestone in his career. He shared: "For me, it's a bonus because not many get the opportunity to be nominated. It fills me with pride to know I'm part of that list." The recognition feels like a reward for his persistent effort, as he added, "You set targets and goals for yourself, and sometimes you don't imagine reaching this far, but things like this coming your way make you happy."

2026 Ballon d'Or Gala Approaches in London

The award ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London. This will mark Kane's eighth time being nominated, where he will face competition from other top internationals including Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice. Kane’s remarkable season also helped Bayern sweep all three major German domestic trophies.

• Player: Harry Kane
• Team: Bayern Munich
• Goals in 2025-26 season: 73 (club and country)
• Ballon d'Or nominations: 8th nomination
• Ballon d'Or ceremony date: October 26, 2026
• Location: London
• Main rivals: Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice