Why Won't Samuel Umtiti's 2026 Ballon d'Or Favorite Please Barcelona Fans?

The ex Culé's player has revealed his pick for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, and his choice could disappoint Blaugrana fans.

The 2026 Ballon d'Or debate has gained another voice, this time from a former FC Barcelona player. Samuel Umtiti did not hesitate to name his favorite for the prestigious award, and his choice is unlikely to be welcomed by the Barcelona faithful.

HIS CONTROVERSIAL FAVORITE

Ahead of the derby between Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid, Samuel Umtiti was asked by DAZN Spain who should win the Ballon d'Or. The former French defender was clear in his choice, backing his compatriot Kylian Mbappé, the Real Madrid forward.

“For me, Kylian has had an incredible season, scoring many goals for both his club and the national team. There are many candidates, including Bellingham and what he has done with his national team. But I'm French, so I'm going with Kylian,” Umtiti explained.

The statement drew particular attention because Lamine Yamal is considered one of the leading candidates for the award.

Umtiti also spent six seasons at Barcelona, making his decision to back a player from the club's biggest rival especially notable among Barça supporters.

THE BIG BALLON D'OR DEBATE

Umtiti's choice comes at a time of growing anticipation surrounding the Ballon d'Or. Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane are among the three names attracting the most attention in the race for the prestigious award.

Statistics are also part of the debate. Mbappé enters the conversation as the top scorer in LaLiga, the Champions League and the World Cup from the previous season, while Lamine has established himself as one of the key figures for Barcelona and the Spain national team.

Umtiti's stance also contrasts with that of Deco, Barcelona's sporting director, who recently publicly backed Lamine Yamal. “I think Lamine is the leading candidate. I have no doubt about that,” the club executive said in an interview with RAC 1.

The Ballon d'Or debate has once again placed two stars representing Spain's biggest rivals in the spotlight: Lamine Yamal for Barcelona and Kylian Mbappé for Real Madrid. Amid that battle, Umtiti has already made it clear who would get his vote.