Ballon d’Or 2026: Fran Garcia Names Fabian Ruiz as His Favourite Over Lamine Yamal

Real Betis defender Fran Garcia named Fabian Ruiz as his preferred winner of the 2026 Ballon d'OrGarcia acknowledged Lamine Yamal as one of the best players in the world but argued Fabian has made a greater differenceThe 2026 Ballon d'Or is scheduled to be announced in London on October 26, with several top stars still in contentionGhana’s top stories, now easier to find. Discover our new search feature!

Real Betis defender Fran Garcia has publicly backed Paris Saint-Germain and Spain midfielder Fabian Ruiz to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or, setting aside the widespread expectation that Lamine Yamal would claim football's most prestigious individual award.

Lamine Yamal has been overlooked by Spain teammate Fran Garcia for the 2026 Ballon d’Or award. Photos by James Gill – Danehouse, Franck Fife and Levan Verdzeuli. Source: Getty ImagesBallon d'Or 2026: Fran Garcia's case for RuizGarcia stopped short of dismissing Yamal's credentials entirely, conceding that the young winger ranks among the finest players on the planet.

However, he argued that Fabian's sustained contributions over the past year give him a stronger claim to the honour.

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Despite that assessment, he was unambiguous about his personal preference.

Garcia acknowledged that Yamal's style captures more attention from spectators but insisted Fabian's ability to shape the outcome of matches should carry equal weight in the Ballon d'Or conversation.

Fabian has featured prominently for both PSG and the Spanish national side, with his performances at the 2026 World Cup drawing particular praise.

Garcia's endorsement adds momentum to what has become a growing debate over which player deserves recognition for the year's body of work.

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Yamal's own case for the award remains compelling.

The teenage winger contributed significantly to Spain's victory at the 2026 World Cup and featured throughout Barcelona's successful La Liga title defence, two achievements that have kept him firmly in the discussion.

The 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled to take place in London on 26 October, with multiple high-profile candidates still in contention for the award.

YEN.com.gh earlier reported that Lamine Yamal disclosed that his motivation in football goes beyond personal statistics and financial rewards.

The 19-year-old Barcelona star believes players who focus too much on goals and assists risk losing the joy of playing the game.

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Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe (Sports Editor) Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a CAF-accredited journalist with over five years of experience in digital journalism. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Integrated Rural Arts and Industry (2016). Godwin’s career includes covering the 2023 AFCON and grassroots competitions within Ghana. He has also served as a Presenter at VNTV, a Sports Analyst at Obonu FM, and a Football Writer for a myriad of sports websites. He joined Yen.com.gh in 2024 to cover sports. Email: [email protected].