Harry Kane might be among the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or, but former France international Djibril Cissé believes there is one name that should not be overlooked in the race: Lionel Messi.

The Bayern Munich striker has built a compelling case through his consistency, professionalism, and goalscoring exploits. However, Cissé believes the competition remains wide open, with Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal all potentially complicating Kane’s hopes of finally claiming the individual honor.

“The Ballon d’Or is still wide open, but I have a favorite. I love Yamal. I love Harry Kane too, for his consistency, his professionalism, his class, and his efficiency. He’s scored so many goals that at some point he’ll have to be rewarded. But will it be enough against Mbappé and Yamal? You can’t forget Lionel Messi either, because he had a big World Cup and anything is possible,” Cissé told Mr Gamble.

“You can’t forget about him, even if he’s in the United States and people think the league is weaker. I played in Greece and people said the same thing, but goals don’t score themselves. You still have to put them away. You still see him running on the pitch like he’s 20 or 25, and scoring goals isn’t easy, so I wouldn’t write him off that quickly. He’ll be there, in the top four or five. Maybe not winning it, but in the top four or five. I’d really love it for Kane because he’s a nice guy, but I think it will be difficult.”

Cissé’s comments offer a reminder that Kane’s goalscoring numbers alone might not be enough to secure the award. Messi’s enduring quality and international achievements could still influence voters, even as the Argentine superstar continues his career in the United States.

For Bayern Munich supporters, the prospect of Kane finally winning the Ballon d’Or is an exciting one. Yet Cissé’s assessment suggests that the competition could be tougherthan some expect, particularly with Yamal and Mbappé also in the conversation.