Diego Simeone Picks Lionel Messi Over Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe for 2026 Ballon d’Or

Atletico Madrid’s coach Diego Simeone has thrown his weight behind Lionel Messi as the favorite for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, setting aside rising stars like Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe. The Argentine legend’s outstanding performance in the recent World Cup at age 39 impressed Simeone enough to overlook younger contenders.

Simeone Dismisses Yamal and Mbappe’s Claims

Before Atletico’s match against Osasuna, Simeone was asked about the leading candidates for football’s most prestigious individual award. Despite current favorites, he made it clear that Messi stands above the rest. This comes after Yamal claimed that he and Mbappe are the top players worldwide right now, a notion Simeone rejects firmly.

"Messi, without a doubt," Simeone told reporters. "After the World Cup he had, at the age he is, no doubt at all. Messi."

For Simeone, Messi’s ability to guide Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, even though they lost to Spain, shows unmatched quality and endurance that outshines claims from other stars like Rodri, Harry Kane, or Ousmane Dembele.

Other Players Make Their Case

Following Simeone’s endorsement, Yamal also expressed confidence in his chances, highlighting his victories in La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the World Cup with Spain as reasons he deserves the 2026 Ballon d'Or ahead of Mbappe.

Meanwhile, reigning champion Ousmane Dembele declared his intention to keep the trophy, stating, "It is going to stay in the hands of a PSG player. I’m a competitor, so it’s my goal to win it again."

Messi’s nomination this year marks his 17th time on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, just one shy of Cristiano Ronaldo’s record 18 appearances. He last won the award in 2023, securing his eighth title.

Upcoming Ceremony in London

The 70th Ballon d'Or ceremony will take place on October 26, 2026, in London, moving away from Paris for the first time. This change honors Sir Stanley Matthews, the inaugural winner back in 1956.

• Ballon d’Or 2026 Ceremony Date: October 26, 2026
• Location: London
• Previous Venue: Paris (until 2025)
• Tribute To: Sir Stanley Matthews