Sports News of Thursday, 7 May 2026

Source: www.dailypost.ng

Ballon d’Or 2026: Top 5 players to win award ahead of UCL final

Ballon d'Or trophy Ballon d'Or trophy

Paris Saint-Germain winger, Ousmane Dembele, is now the new favourite to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or prize.

Dembele has been in sensational form for the Ligue 1 giants, as they reached the final where they will play Arsenal.

The 28-year-old scored three times against Bayern as they won their semi-final tie 6-5 on aggregate.

PSG are also on track to retain their title in France, which would lead to Dembele winning the Ballon d’Or back-to-back.

Based on recent performances and betting market indicators, Dembele is ranked ahead of a mix of established superstars and rising talents across Europe.

Another of the Frenchman’s team-mate, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, is another hot favourite for the award.

Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane has seen his chances drop after their elimination, while Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid is still in the running.

The top 5 contenders:

1. Ousmane Dembele (PSG)

2. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG)

3. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)

4. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

5. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)