Manchester United and Arsenal legends have revealed their choices for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with Lamine Yamal emerging as a popular pick among the former players.
Former England international Rio Ferdinand asked several football greats who they believed would win this year’s award.
In a video shared on the official X account of Rio Ferdinand Presents, Ferdinand asked Mikael Silvestre through Rio VLOGS: “Ballon d’Or time, Mikael Silvestre is with me. Mikael, who do you think will win the Ballon d’Or?”
Silvestre replied, “Michael Olise.”
Manchester United legends Ryan Giggs, Nemanja Vidic and John O’Shea all backed Yamal for the top individual prize.
Former United striker Louis Saha, however, went for Kylian Mbappe. Explaining his choice, he said, “Mbappe, because he is French.”
Another former Manchester United forward, Dimitar Berbatov, admitted he had a personal preference for England captain Harry Kane.
“I would be biased and go for Harry Kane.”
Arsenal legends Ashley Cole and Gilberto Silva also named Yamal as their choice to win the award.
With several former stars sharing their predictions, the competition remains a major talking point ahead of the official announcement.
The winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or will be announced later this month in London.
