Luis Enrique backs Fabian Ruiz for 2026 Ballon d’Or
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has named Fabian Ruiz as his preferred candidate for the 2026 Ballon d’Or award. Enrique highlighted Ruiz’s significant trophy haul and crucial role in his teams’ successes as reasons for his endorsement, despite other high-profile players being considered favourites.
Ruiz, a 30-year-old midfielder, has had a successful period, contributing to PSG‘s consecutive Champions League victories. He also achieved international success with Spain, winning Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup, in addition to the UEFA Nations League. Luis Enrique publicly acknowledged Ruiz’s achievements during a PSG training session, stating that the only thing missing from the midfielder’s collection is the Ballon d’Or itself.
The PSG manager’s support for Ruiz extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. Enrique noted Ruiz’s personal journey, which includes overcoming financial difficulties during his childhood in Los Palacios y Villafranca, Seville. His parents separated when he was young, and his mother raised three children while working to support the family. Trips to Betis training sessions required considerable family effort. After reaching professional football, Ruiz was able to provide financial support to his mother, reflecting a story of sacrifice behind his success.
Managerial Endorsement and Player Attributes
Luis Enrique’s backing for Ruiz is rooted in the midfielder’s tactical intelligence, ball control, attacking contributions, and ability to balance the midfield. While Ruiz’s contributions might be less visually striking than those of prolific goalscorers, Enrique considers them fundamental to the team’s overall performance. This perspective leads Enrique to champion Ruiz over other prominent contenders for the award, such as Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Lamine Yamal.
Another PSG player, Vitinha, also expressed his preference for a Parisian player to win the Ballon d’Or. He mentioned three PSG players as deserving candidates: Fabian Ruiz, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Ousmane Dembele. Vitinha stated that it would be normal for a PSG player to win the award, citing Kvaratskhelia’s Champions League season, Dembele’s strong season, and Ruiz’s numerous victories.
Dembele, the current holder of the Ballon d’Or, was named in the Team of the Season after scoring eight goals in 13 appearances as PSG retained their Champions League trophy. Kvaratskhelia, who succeeded Dembele as the organisers’ Player of the Season, recorded 10 goals and seven assists during the 2025/26 Champions League, less than 18 months after his debut for the club.
Upcoming Super Cup Challenge
PSG is preparing to face Europa League holders Aston Villa in the Super Cup, which will take place in Salzburg on Wednesday. PSG secured their spot in the Super Cup by defeating Tottenham on penalties in last season’s showpiece event. Vitinha conveyed the team’s eagerness for the upcoming match, emphasizing that it represents not just a win, but an opportunity to claim another trophy.
Vitinha noted the team’s history-making achievements but stressed their continued hunger for more success. He acknowledged the difficulty of such high-stakes matches and expressed the team’s intention to make the most of the opportunity. The 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26, 2026, in London, where the winner will be announced.
Source: 101greatgoals.com
