Former France striker Jean-Pierre Papin has named Bayern Munich forward Harry Kane as his preferred candidate for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, placing him ahead of Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal.

Papin acknowledged that Mbappe and Yamal had also enjoyed impressive seasons but said he had a slight preference for Kane to win football’s most prestigious individual award.

“I have a slight preference for Harry Kane, but Kylian Mbappe has also had a very good season, as has Lamine Yamal,” Papin said, according to SPORT.

The former striker also praised Yamal’s exceptional talent, suggesting the Barcelona winger could dominate the award in the years ahead.

“I am afraid that once Lamine Yamal gets his hands on it, he will keep it for several years, because he is so incredible every day,” Papin said.

He added that Yamal consistently impressed him with his creativity and ability to produce unexpected moments on the pitch, while reiterating his preference for Kane.

Kane, Mbappe and Yamal are among the players being discussed as potential contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with the winner expected to be announced later this month in London.