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The countdown is nearly over. The 2026 World Cup is just around the corner, with the top footballers from across the world preparing to compete in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. While some nations aim merely to progress beyond the group stages, others will consider anything less than lifting the trophy in late July as a disappointment. Football fans are in for five and a half weeks of gripping action, filled with triumphs and heartbreaks in equal measure.

At GOAL, we pride ourselves on understanding the nuances of the beautiful game. So, we asked our team of UK and U.S. writers and editors to predict what might unfold at this historic tournament — from who will take the Golden Boot to which teams could emerge as surprise contenders. Today, our focus turns to the Golden Ball, awarded to the tournament’s standout player. Here’s what our experts had to say.

'Mbappe is saving himself for France'

Mark Doyle: If Lamine Yamal were fully fit, I’d back him, but the hamstring injury that disrupted his club season leaves a bit of uncertainty. Lionel Messi’s physical condition is also a concern, and while Argentina could certainly retain their crown, dominating a second World Cup in a row might be too tall an order — especially at 39. Kylian Mbappe, despite his own recent injury struggles, seems to be pacing himself perfectly for France and could finally capture the Golden Ball that Messi denied him in Qatar 2022.

'Yamal will be influential at the business end'

Krishan Davis: If Lamine Yamal recovers in time, the Spanish prodigy could just edge out Kylian Mbappe. Even if he misses the group stage, it’s the knockout performances that truly define players, and with an expanded tournament now including a last-32 round, Yamal has opportunities to make a major impact. After a quiet start at Euro 2024, his knockout performances were phenomenal, and he’s likely to be just as influential when the World Cup reaches its decisive stages in North America.

'Stage set for Olise to explode'

Stephen Darwin: Following an exceptional club season, Michael Olise looks ready to light up the international stage. Scoring 22 goals and providing 31 assists for Bayern Munich should cement his place in France’s starting XI. As most opponents will likely deploy deep defensive lines, Olise’s magical left foot could prove crucial in creating chances and scoring long-range goals that define matches.

'Vinicius can propel Brazil all the way'

Amee Ruszkai: Under Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, Vinicius Jr has evolved into a complete world-class footballer. His mentor is expected to provide the ideal conditions for him to thrive with Brazil at this World Cup. There will be immense pressure on the 25-year-old to lead the Selecao, but he has consistently delivered under such expectations. This summer could see him inspire Brazil’s charge and secure the Golden Ball in recognition of his performances.

'Ballon d'Or could follow Golden Ball for Mbappe'

Chris Burton: If France make a deep run, Kylian Mbappe will almost certainly be at the heart of it. Criticism of his personality may linger, but his ability to produce game-changing moments remains beyond question. Should he guide France to a third straight final and possibly another World Cup title, a Golden Ball triumph could easily be followed by the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

'Few better than Vitinha'

Ryan Tolmich: With the exception of Luka Modric in 2018, the Golden Ball often goes to the top performer from the winning team. So, who’s best placed for that? Portugal might be underestimated, but they have the quality to go all the way — led by Vitinha’s brilliance in midfield. With midfield maestros like Lionel Messi, Pedri, and Bruno Fernandes also in contention, this could be a tournament dominated by playmakers. And there are few more technically gifted than Vitinha.

'Olise is in electrifying form'

Peter McVitie: Michael Olise has been one of Europe’s most exciting players, coming off a stunning season with Bayern Munich that earned him the Bundesliga Player of the Season award. Securing a starting spot in Didier Deschamps’ France side won’t be easy, with Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Bradley Barcola all in contention, but Olise’s early international showings suggest he’s ready to make a strong impact.

'England will go as far as Kane can take them'

Tom Hindle: This might sound risky, but I’m backing Harry Kane. The Golden Ball typically goes to the best player on the World Cup-winning team, and this could finally be England’s year. The Three Lions’ success will depend heavily on Kane’s performances. After a sensational season with Bayern Munich and being a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or, there’s every reason to believe he’ll continue his prolific form for England.

'Fernandes is going to lead Portugal all the way'

Tom Maston: The Premier League Player of the Year has enjoyed a relatively lighter workload than most of his elite peers and will be part of a Portugal side that deserves more recognition. Bruno Fernandes is poised to lead his nation deep into the tournament. While he may lack the most dynamic forward options ahead of him, he has consistently delivered top-quality performances even in challenging circumstances at Manchester United, and he’s expected to carry that form into the World Cup.

'World is about to get to know Olise'

Alex Labidou: The global audience is about to truly discover Michael Olise. He may not attract the same media frenzy as his teammate Kylian Mbappe, but he certainly brings far less drama. Arguably Bayern Munich’s best all-round performer last season, Olise appears perfectly positioned to elevate his reputation on the world stage. Keep an eye on him — this could be his breakout tournament.