Santi Cazorla names his choice for the 2026 Ballon d’Or

Former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has backed Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, insisting the teenager has earned the prestigious individual honour. Cazorla believes Yamal’s performances for Barcelona and Spain have placed him among the leading contenders for the award.

According to Daily Post Nigeria, the former Spain international said he would give the prize to Yamal because of his achievements and contribution to the national team. The 19-year-old faces strong competition, with Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe also regarded as leading candidates for the 2026 award.