According to a report by Daily Post Nigeria, on Friday October 23, 2026, former Watford captain Troy Deeney believes Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal is the leading contender for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, which is due to be presented in London on Monday.

Deeney expects Yamal’s World Cup success to give him an advantage over Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane.

Speaking on CBS Sports Golazo, Deeney praised Kane’s performances but suggested that major trophies often influence the voting.

He compared the debate to the 2024 race between Vinícius Júnior and Rodri, arguing that individual statistics and reputation may not outweigh team achievements.

“Harry Kane has been fantastic, unbelievable,” Deeney said. “But the way the voting seems to have gone, it seems to be based on what you have won. Lamine Yamal won the World Cup, so that should be what tips it in his favour.”

Yamal finished second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or standings, behind eventual winner Ousmane Dembélé. Deeney’s prediction places the Barcelona teenager ahead of Kane as this year’s ceremony approaches.