Müller’s Ballon d’Or shortlist omits Kane, favours Olise and Mbappé
Former Bayern Munich forward Thomas Müller has ruled England captain Harry Kane out of his two‑man shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, naming Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappé as the only candidates whose individual performances have impressed him most.
Müller’s Ballon d’Or shortlist
Writing in his personal newsletter, the Vancouver Whitecaps forward explained that Olise and Mbappé were the two players whose recent displays stood out above the rest. “For me, there are two candidates whose individual performances have impressed me the most, and they are Michael Olise and his brilliant partner at the World Cup, Kylian Mbappé,” Müller said.
He added that the duo combine spectacular play with a real goal threat, describing their efficiency as “finesse and power while making the whole thing look incredibly effortless”. Müller concluded that such “touch of magic” is what a world’s best footballer needs.
Olise’s Bundesliga display
Müller highlighted Olise’s recent performance in Bayern Munich’s 7‑0 Bundesliga victory over Union Berlin, noting the French winger’s continued threat from distance. “It’s nothing new, how he converts those strikes from outside the box, and yet it’s always a spectacle,” Müller remarked.
Olise and Mbappé are both among the nominees for this year’s award, alongside Kane and several other leading contenders.
Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is also expected to feature prominently after finishing behind Ousmane Dembélé in last year’s voting. The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced in London on October 26.
Despite being omitted from Müller’s top two, the England captain remains among the leading contenders after another prolific campaign with Bayern Munich.
Müller, the 2014 World Cup winner, continues to thrive after his move to Vancouver. He recently extended his contract with the Whitecaps and joked, “For me personally, things are going pretty well in front of the opposition goal.”
The upcoming award ceremony in London will determine whether Olise, Mbappé or another contender lifts the coveted trophy.