Who will win the 2026 Ballon d’Or? On October 26, the prestigious award for the world’s best soccer player will be presented. For Bayern legend Lothar Matthäus, the decision is actually quite simple. The 65-year-old sees only two players who deserve the award. What’s particularly noteworthy: Both are under contract with FC Bayern.

Harry Kane and Michael Olise played a key role last season in helping the German record champions become one of the most successful teams both domestically and internationally. Both offensive stars impressed with outstanding performances and numerous goal contributions.

For Matthäus, it is therefore clear that this year’s Ballon d’Or should go to Munich.

Matthäus: “Kane and Olise—and no one else”

In an interview with the German Press Agency, the all-time leading German international commented on the upcoming vote and made it clear which criteria are decisive for him. “When I evaluate this period— [letzte Saison] —the only period that should be evaluated—there are only two for me,” Matthäus explained.

He then named his two favorites: “Both play for Bayern Munich. Harry Kane and Michael Olise—and no one else.”

A remarkably clear statement from the former Bayern captain, who thereby ranks all other candidates—including Spanish star Lamine Yamal—behind the two Munich attackers for the prestigious award.

For Matthäus, only performance from the previous season counts. In his opinion, the current season should have no bearing on the decision.

Kane and Olise: The Keys to Bayern’s Success

In fact, both Bayern stars have strong arguments in their favor.

Kane was once again Munich’s top scorer last season. The English international impressed not only as a finisher but also as a playmaker and leader.

Olise, for his part, has developed into one of the most spectacular attacking players in Europe. With his dribbling, creativity, and goal-scoring threat, the Frenchman has shaped the record champions’ attacking play.

Together, they both played a decisive role in Bayern’s double victory.

Kane and Olise are seamlessly building on their strong performances this season as well. While Kane continues to score regularly, Olise is among the most standout players in top-tier European soccer.

The former World Player of the Year knows firsthand what it means to win the coveted award. In 1990, he received the Ballon d’Or after an outstanding season and winning the World Cup with Germany.

This article was translated into English by AI. You can read the original version here https://fcbinside.de/2026/10/20/matthaeus-ansage-zum-ballon-dor-nur-zwei-bayern-stars-kommen-infrage/.