Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino believes Harry Kane deserves to win the Ballon d’Or, insisting the Bayern Munich striker’s achievements throughout his career make him worthy of football’s most prestigious individual award.
Kane is the leading contender ahead of Monday’s, October 26, 2026 ceremony and could become the first English player in 25 years to claim the honour.
The England captain has enjoyed remarkable success since leaving Tottenham for Bayern Munich in a transfer worth approximately £100 million three years ago. Before his departure, he established himself as Spurs’ greatest goalscorer, finding the net 280 times in 435 appearances for the North London club.
His outstanding performances during the 2025-26 season have strengthened his chances of winning the award, with 73 goals recorded for club and country. However, he faces stiff competition from Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal.
The Ballon d’Or was introduced by French publication France Football in 1956. This year’s ceremony will take place at the Palladium Theatre to mark 70 years since the award was established.
Kane on making history
Only four English players have won the prize, with Kane hoping to become the fifth. Previous winners from England include Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan and Michael Owen.
Despite his impressive statistics, the 33-year-old has played down speculation surrounding his chances of winning the award.
Speaking after scoring in Bayern’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Kane admitted that avoiding discussions about the Ballon d’Or has not been easy.
“I try not to think about it.
“Obviously it is hard not to. There are always rumours and stuff flying around so you try to stay away from it. I think my wife would prefer to know and my family.”
While Kane has remained cautious about his prospects, several prominent figures in football have backed him to emerge victorious, including England manager Thomas Tuchel.
Former England striker Gary Lineker is also among those supporting the Bayern forward. Earlier this month, Lineker praised Kane’s achievements and expressed his desire to see him receive the accolade.
“What Harry Kane has done is truly incredible. I would love to see him win it. It would be very well deserved and it is either going to be him or Lamine Yamal.”
Yamal has also enjoyed a successful campaign, helping Spain win the World Cup this summer before playing a key role in Barcelona’s La Liga triumph.
Kane, meanwhile, guided Bayern to the Bundesliga title and German Cup, while the German giants reached the Champions League semi-finals. He also scored six goals as England secured third place at the World Cup.
Those achievements have strengthened the argument for the former Tottenham star to be recognised, with Pochettino among the leading voices calling for him to win.
The Argentine, who previously worked with Kane at Tottenham, made his position clear when asked whether the striker should receive the award.
“My wish, I hope yes,” Pochettino said of Kane. “I think he deserves it as the reward for his career and for all what he has done in football. For me, it’s Harry Kane’s time.”
Pochettino’s endorsement adds to the growing support for Kane as he seeks to cap an outstanding career with one of football’s most coveted individual honours.
