Ballon d'Or 2027 Power Rankings: Early Leaders Challenge Harry Kane

The contest for the 2027 Ballon d'Or is heating up as numerous stars aim to unseat Harry Kane, who claimed the award in 2026. With no major international tournaments on the horizon, this year’s race will largely be shaped by performances at club level, particularly in the Champions League.

No player has repeated as winner since 2021, so Kane faces stiff competition from a talented pool eager to claim the top spot.

Top 10 Players to Watch

10. Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain)2026-27 stats: 4 goals, 6 assists
Achievements: UEFA Super Cup winner
Dembele is aiming to build on his 2025 Ballon d'Or win, having finished in the top 10 last year. Although currently injured, he is expected to return in time to influence the crucial second half of the season for PSG, especially after losing Kvaratskhelia to a knee injury.
2026-27 stats: 1 goal, 4 assists
Achievements: Community Shield winner
Despite Arsenal's success last season, Rice was only 15th in the Ballon d'Or rankings, reflecting the team’s collective strength over individual accolades. Still, his standout performance against Bayern Munich has him poised to push for more recognition.
2026-27 stats: 16 goals
Despite off-field troubles due to Premier League sanctions, Haaland continues to find the net at a remarkable rate. If City prioritize the Champions League amid domestic uncertainty, Haaland’s chances for Ballon d'Or consideration could rise.
2026-27 stats: 4 goals, 1 assist
Achievements: UEFA Super Cup winner
Vitinha remains a leading midfielder, pivotal to PSG’s recent Champions League victories. His spectacular long-range goals against Man City and Barcelona highlight his quality and bolster his chances for another Ballon d'Or podium finish.
2026-27 stats: 14 goals, 8 assists
Achievements: DFL-Supercup winner
Olise’s impressive breakout last season earned him ninth place in the Ballon d'Or rankings. Continuing this form puts him well within reach of a top-10 finish in 2027, despite fierce competition even within Bayern’s squad.
2026-27 stats: 5 goals, 6 assists
Achievements: UEFA Super Cup winner
Doue bounced back from being snubbed for the 2026 shortlist with dazzling performances early this season, including key moments against Man City and Barcelona. With Kvaratskhelia sidelined long-term, he’s stepping into a leading role for PSG.
2026-27 stats: 16 goals, 9 assists
Achievements: DFL-Supercup winner
Kane, the 2026 Ballon d'Or champion, shows no signs of slowing down at 33. His all-around display against Arsenal in the Champions League proves he’s capable of defending his title, something not achieved since Messi in 2021.
2026-27 stats: 16 goals, 4 assists
After being controversially left off the 2026 shortlist, Raphinha has refocused energy into excelling as a central striker for Barcelona. His performances in La Liga and the Champions League make him a strong contender in 2027.
2026-27 stats: 15 goals, 3 assists
Mbappe, a long-anticipated Ballon d'Or winner, finished runner-up to Kane last year. Despite a shaky start for Real Madrid, his decisive brace in El Clasico suggests progress under Jose Mourinho, heightening hopes to end Madrid’s trophy drought.
2026-27 stats: 12 goals, 7 assists
Yamal hasn’t yet turned 20 but has already been on the Ballon d'Or podium twice. His dazzling dribbling and quick feet have overwhelmed defenders early this season. Bookmakers see him as the favorite to claim the 2027 Ballon d'Or, and it’s hard to argue against that given his impact so far.