Tuchel names Harry Kane as his choice for Ballon d’Or
By Luke Oluoch, September 25, 2026England manager Thomas Tuchel has described the country’s talismanic forward, Harry Kane, as his choice to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
The England captain is among the strong favourites for football’s most prestigious individual accolade, and Tuchel has firmly backed his own striker. Speaking on Thursday to ITV, the German gaffer said Kane deserved the award after his exceptional feats with club and country, including his recent milestone of breaking the 100-goal barrier in the Bundesliga.
“Yeah. After this season, yeah. 70-plus goals. Three titles with Bayern Munich. And two semifinals at the World Cup and Champions League, yeah,” he stated.
Meanwhile, as the debate rages over what should constitute a winning candidate, the former Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea coach also praised the player’s complete profile as the full package.
“He is getting better and better. I think he added a level of physicality to his game. He is so committed to the high press and being involved in every part of the match—build-up play, defending, and finishing. He is just the full package,” he explained.
Addressing speculation regarding Kane’s future, the striker will be 36 years old by the next World Cup; Tuchel brushed off ageing concerns, adding that for such evergreen scorers, age is just a number.
Eighth nomination
Regarded as one of the deadliest strikers on the planet, the Englishman has received his eighth nomination for the Men’s Ballon d’Or and has expressed optimism that the award ceremony in London on October 26, 2026, brings him good fortune.
“By far, it was the best season of my life. It’s true that scoring 73 goals, the second-highest tally in history, speaks for itself. I am extremely proud of it. I can only thank my teammates and everyone who helped make it possible. But the Ballon d’Or isn’t in my hands. It depends on the people who vote.”
“I am now focused on this season and excited to see what more I can do. I know there will be a lot of talk about the Ballon d’Or until October, because it’s a major award,” the marksman stated.
Good omen?
“Yes, a lot of people have mentioned it to me, and perhaps it’s a good omen. Of course, having it take place in my hometown would make it even more special. So yes, it’s a strange feeling knowing it’s being held there this year. We’ll have to wait and see what happens,” he added.