La Fuente aims at the Ballon d'Or for Spain, race still open
Luis de la Fuente stated in a press conference that the Ballon d'Or should go to a Spanish player, naming the best in the world. His remark, summed up with the expression “La Fuente Pallone”, reignites the debate about the race for the award. Some hope for a Spain‑branded success, like the head coach of the Iberian national team Luis de la Fuente.
Media and protagonists
For weeks Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal have been at the centre of media attention, both heavily featured in the race for the Ballon d'Or. Mbappé, a Real Madrid forward, has retained a central role in the team, as well as becoming the highest scorer in the history of the Cups. Yamal, a Barcelona talent, is the symbol of the new generation of Spanish football.
Other prominent candidates
The list of candidates, however, is very extensive and includes top names such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Fabian Ruiz, Rodri and Ousmane Dembélé. All four feature among the possible contenders for the award. Their presence highlights the diversity of options for individual recognition.
Luis de la Fuente demands rotations before Spain‑Croatia clash in Seville
The opinions of Cañizares and Ruiz
Former goalkeeper Santiago Cañizares, now a commentator, is known for his controversial opinions. Cañizares stated that, before Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé, there are two superior candidates: Harry Kane and Fabian Ruiz. “For me, before Lamine and before Mbappé, there are two superior candidates, who are Harry Kane and Fabian Ruiz, for what they have done this season,” he said during the program “El Partidazo” on the Spanish radio station COPE. Fabian Ruiz, a midfielder for Paris Saint‑Germain, reiterated that he has all the arguments to be elected winner of the 2026 Ballon d'Or, stating: “Are there players who have had a better era? Regarding titles, no. Individually, great players have had an excellent season and their level is beyond doubt.”
Spanish manager Luis de la Fuente then emphasized: “They are the best players in the world. The history of the Ballon d'Or owes more than one recognition to a Spaniard. Now I would like one of ours to win it, because it would make me happy.” The statement was made on the eve of the match against Croatia at the Ramón Sánchez‑Pizjuán in Seville.