While the Portugal captain remains one of the most decorated players in the history of the award, a remarkable pattern involving his international teammates has emerged over the past few years.

While being in the MLS, Lionel Messi has managed to be included in the 30-nominee list for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, prompting questions whether he's the only player in the league to ever be nominated.

When asked to name his top three candidates for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, Ousmane Dembele left out Lamine Yamal. Now, the Barcelona star has responded with a clear message that includes Kylian Mbappe.

Cristiano Ronaldo missed out on a 2026 Ballon d'Or nomination for the second straight year, with the Portuguese forward's last win of the award coming back in 2017.

Lionel Messi has been nominated for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, his 17th career nomination, while Cristiano Ronaldo, who holds the record with 18, misses out on a nomination for the second consecutive year.

Kylian Mbappe enjoyed a strong summer campaign with France at the World Cup, leading the Real Madrid forward to believe he is a frontrunner to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or.

Luis Enrique reiterated his belief that a PSG player should win the 2026 Ballon d'Or after the club's back-to-back Champions League titles.

Harry Kane remains optimistic on his chances of winning the 2026 Ballon d'Or after reaching the second highest mark of goals scored in a single season only behind Lionel Messi.

After being endorsed by PSG coach Luis Enrique and teammate Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz spoke candidly about his chances of winning the Ballon d'Or.

The 2026 World Cup seems to have completely reshaped the Ballon d'Or race. Following the tournament, Harry Kane has taken the lead at the top of the rankings, while Lamine Yamal has moved up. Surprisingly, Lionel Messi has re-entered the race.

Despite being one of the best players of the season, Lamine Yamal lost the Ballon d’Or award to Ousmane Dembélé, surprising everyone. After this, the 18-year-old star made a curious reflection on not having won it, seeing it as a boost for his career.

Paul Pogba said that Bruno Fernandes would be more highly regarded in the Ballon d’Or race if he played for Manchester City instead of Manchester United.

Lamine Yamal could be one of the favorites to win the next Ballon d'Or, according to Neymar.

Ousmane Dembele lifted the most prestigious individual prize in world soccer, Lamine Yamal stood proudly beside him on the podium, and Raphinha watched from further down the list.

Overlooked, underestimated, yet once again decisive when it mattered most, the Brazilian star left Jeddah with a trophy in his hands and a message that would soon echo far beyond the stadium.