Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has picked Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise as his two favourites to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
Henry said Mbappe remains his top choice for the prestigious individual award, while Bayern Munich winger Olise is his second favourite.
Speaking on CBS Sports, the former France international said the 2026 Ballon d’Or race is difficult to predict because several top players have strong claims.
Henry said Olise had an outstanding season and was the best player in Germany last year.
“This year is a bit more complicated,” Henry said.
He also mentioned other leading contenders, including Harry Kane, Rodri, Lamine Yamal and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
According to Henry, Rodri was excellent at the World Cup but did not play enough during the season to make him his top choice.
He also pointed out that Yamal did not have the best World Cup because he arrived at the tournament carrying an injury.
Henry added that Kvaratskhelia’s absence from the World Cup could also affect his chances.
The former Barcelona and France forward said Mbappe has a strong case because of his goalscoring record.
Mbappe was the top scorer in the Champions League, La Liga and at the World Cup, according to Henry.
Although Mbappe did not win every major trophy, Henry believes his individual performances make him a serious contender for the award.
“People will tell me that he did not win everything,” Henry said. “But he was the top goalscorer in the Champions League, top goalscorer in La Liga, and also at the World Cup.”
Henry concluded that Mbappe is his preferred choice, with Olise very close behind.
“I would personally go with Mbappe and keep Olise close,” he said.
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