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Jamie Carragher has expressed that Harry Kane fully deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or based on his exceptional performances over the past year. However, the former Liverpool defender believes that Lionel Messi or Kylian Mbappe are more likely to claim the honour if Argentina or France triumph at the World Cup, which could leave England’s captain at a disadvantage.

Carragher outlines Kane’s Ballon d’Or challenge

Kane continues to reinforce his reputation as one of the most consistent and prolific strikers in world football. Yet, Carragher feels that personal statistics alone may not be sufficient to secure the 2026 Ballon d’Or. In his column for The Telegraph, he argued that the award often reflects performances in the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. With the 2026 World Cup still in progress, Carragher believes international success will be a decisive factor in determining the eventual winner.

Messi and Mbappe’s upper hand, according to Carragher

While Carragher insists Kane has the talent to win the Ballon d’Or, he also suggests that the competition for the 2026 award will depend greatly on the standing and achievements of Messi and Mbappe. He pointed out that displays at the World Cup and in the latter stages of the UEFA Champions League often weigh more heavily than domestic goal tallies.

“Based on the past 12 months, Kane should win the Ballon d’Or,” Carragher said. “Unfortunately, he probably won’t because in a World Cup year, the award almost always goes to the star player of the winning team. As much as I’d like to think England can still win it, there’s little evidence to support that belief, especially after recent performances.”

“If Argentina retain the trophy, Messi will win the Ballon d’Or. If France lift it, one of their main men will take it. Kane’s Bayern teammate Michael Olise is a strong contender too, and even though Kylian Mbappe has had a somewhat frustrating club season by his own standards, that will be overshadowed by his magnificent World Cup performances.”

Kane’s greatness goes beyond silverware

Carragher maintains that Kane’s legacy among England’s greatest footballers should not be determined solely by the number of titles he wins. He also believes the striker has already surpassed comparisons with Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker, and Wayne Rooney through his longevity, adaptability, and continued brilliance as one of the game’s most precise finishers.

“Kane’s case to be England’s best ever will generally be dismissed unless he achieves similar success with the national team,” Carragher added. “But in truth, his consistent excellence at a time when England remain behind the elite highlights why, by the end of his career, he might stand apart.”

“A few years back, people debated where Kane ranked among England’s great forwards alongside Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker, and Wayne Rooney. He’s put those arguments to rest.”

World Cup success could seal Kane’s legacy

Although Kane’s individual form keeps him firmly in the running for football’s top individual honours, Carragher believes his Ballon d’Or chances depend on England achieving a deep World Cup run. The Three Lions are gearing up to face Mexico in the round of 16, with Kane expected to lead the attack as they aim to progress to the quarter-finals.