According to a report by FootballTransfers on Monday, October 26, 2026, Arsenal defender William Saliba and Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes have learned their positions in the 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings, with both Premier League stars placed in the lower half of the men’s top 30.

The initial rankings for the men’s and women’s awards have been released ahead of the ceremony in London, which will mark the 70th anniversary of the prestigious individual football award.

Saliba shares 29th place with Al-Nassr forward Sadio Mane following their contributions to successful campaigns for their respective clubs and countries.

The Arsenal centre-back played an important role in his team’s Premier League title-winning season, while Mane helped Al-Nassr secure the Saudi Pro League title and captained Senegal during their Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

Fernandes takes 27th place after an impressive individual season with Manchester United. The Portuguese midfielder was named Premier League Player of the Year, earning recognition for his performances despite his club’s struggles during the campaign.

Al-Qadsiah and Mexico forward Julian Quinones is ranked 28th following his impressive displays at the World Cup. Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano occupies 26th place, while his teammate Luis Diaz is ranked 24th after their club enjoyed a trophy-winning season.

Paris Saint-Germain captain Marquinhos sits in 25th place after helping the French side win another Champions League title alongside several other major honours. His PSG teammates Nuno Mendes and Willian Pacho are ranked 23rd and 20th, respectively.

Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez occupies 22nd place after scoring 17 goals during his club’s Serie A-winning campaign. The Argentine forward also scored three goals during his country’s World Cup run.

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes is ranked 21st, joining Saliba as one of the Premier League champions’ representatives in the men’s rankings.

The women’s rankings also include several notable names. Manchester City players Vivianne Miedema, Alex Greenwood, Kerstin Casparij and Yui Hasegawa all secured places in the top 30 following the club’s successful 2025/26 campaign.

OL Lyonnes players Caroline Weir, Selma Bacha and Wendie Renard were also recognised for their performances during the season.

The remaining positions, including the leading contenders for both awards, are expected to generate significant interest as the ceremony continues.

The rankings reflect the achievements of players across European football and other major leagues over the past season.