Ballon d'Or 2026: Modric Refuses to Choose Between Mbappé and Bellingham

Luka Modric will not take sides. Questioned by Spanish newspaper AS ahead of the publication of the 30-man shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, the AC Milan midfielder and 2018 trophy winner carefully avoided naming a favorite among the contenders from Real Madrid.

« Honestly, I don’t know. I don’t want to mention anyone or say who deserves it most », the Croatian said. « The public will vote and decide the winner. There are many candidates, from Real Madrid and other teams. We’ll see who wins, I prefer not to give names. »

This display of neutrality does not prevent Modric from harboring particular admiration for Jude Bellingham. Without officially making him his number one candidate, he added: « From day one, I saw something different in him. » A remark that says much without settling anything.

The Croatian’s stance contrasts with that of José Mourinho, who proved far less reserved. The Portuguese manager recently championed Kylian Mbappé, emphasizing that the France captain had « made history this summer » at the 2026 World Cup.

The race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or promises to be wide open. Besides Mbappé and Bellingham, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal are among the names regularly mentioned. The 30-man shortlist was to be unveiled on Tuesday, July 8, before a trophy presentation ceremony set for October 26 in London.