Former Germany and Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller has publicly backed two players as his leading candidates for the 2026 Ballon d'Or. In his personal newsletter, Muller identified Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappé as the standout players whose individual displays impressed him most throughout the 2026 World Cup. He cited their performances in the tournament as the primary basis for his assessment. Muller praised both players for threatening opposition defenses while making it appear effortless.
Muller's case for Olise and Mbappé is built on their ability to combine spectacle with goal threat. He noted that they manage to be efficient with their finesse and power, making it look incredibly easy. According to Muller, that's the stuff of a world-class footballer. He reserved particular praise for Olise, noting that the Bayern Munich forward's strong form had carried into the 2026/27 club season. Olise has registered 12 goal involvements across all competitions this term.
Michael Olise's impressive start to the season includes eight goals and four assists, according to Transfermarkt. His most eye-catching contribution came before the international break, when he scored a hat-trick in Bayern Munich's 7-0 demolition of Union Berlin. Muller highlighted Olise's ability to convert chances from outside the penalty area, describing it as a sight to behold.
Kylian Mbappé remains one of the most widely recognized contenders for the 2026 Ballon d'Or after another exceptional campaign at the highest level. Muller's backing adds a notable perspective to what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested race for the award. Other players have also been touted as potential winners, including Lamine Yamal, who was recently snubbed by Spanish international Fran Garcia.
Garcia picked Fabian Ruiz over Lamine Yamal as his preferred winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or, praising Yamal but believing Ruiz has made a bigger impact this season. The 2026 Ballon d'Or race is expected to be highly competitive, with several top players vying for the award. Muller's endorsement of Olise and Mbappé is significant, given his experience and expertise in the football world.
Thomas Muller is a renowned footballer with a successful career spanning several years. He has played for top clubs, including Bayern Munich, and has represented Germany at the international level. His opinions on football are highly regarded, and his backing of Olise and Mbappé is likely to carry significant weight.
The 2026 Ballon d'Or is expected to be awarded to one of the world's top players, based on their performances in the 2026 World Cup and the 2026/27 club season. The award is one of the most prestigious in football, and the contenders are expected to be among the best players in the world.
Key points
- Thomas Muller picks Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappé as top contenders for 2026 Ballon d'Or.
