Lewandowski picks Yamal over Kane for 2026 Ballon d’Or
Robert Lewandowski said he is backing Lamine Yamal to take the 2026 Ballon d’Or, highlighting the Barcelona winger’s quality at a young age. He also praised Harry Kane’s scoring impact at Bayern Munich and the way Kane links with Michael Olise and Luis Díaz. Lewandowski suggested Bayern’s recent season would have been judged differently had they won the Champions League.
Ahead of Monday’s 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Lewandowski said he favors Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, citing the winger’s exceptional ability for his age. The former Barcelona forward also noted that comparisons with earlier eras feel somewhat different.
Lewandowski credited Harry Kane with filling Bayern Munich’s need for a striker after his own departure, praising Kane’s scoring and his link with Michael Olise and Luis Díaz. He said Bayern’s strong season lacked only the Champions League, and that winning it would have changed how the campaign was viewed.
The remarks may shape how fans and young players view elite talent, especially by elevating Yamal as a youthful Ballon d’Or contender. Barcelona and Bayern supporters could see the debate through club rivalries, while media coverage may amplify discussion of award criteria and player development. Because the comments come from a prominent forward, they could add weight to narratives around Kane’s Bayern impact and Olise’s rising profile, though the ceremony’s outcome will ultimately determine how much influence they carry.