Fabián Ruiz returned to PSG training as a world champion. His teammates gave him a guard of honor, and there, in front of the microphones, Luis Enrique uttered the phrase that sparked the debate.
“Fabián has won the World Cup, the European Championship two years ago, back-to-back Champions League, the Nations League…”, said the PSG coach, making it clear that for him there is no better candidate for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. He did not mention Mbappé, Yamal, or Haaland. He spoke about Fabián, 30 years old, the Spanish midfielder who at PSG has already won the French league, two consecutive Champions League titles, the Intercontinental Cup, the French Super Cup and the European Super Cup.
Marquinhos, the team’s captain, did not hold back either: he said that Fabián “only lacks the Ballon d’Or” to have a complete trophy cabinet. The question already circulating on social media is whether such an effective midfielder can overcome the favoritism toward the attacking stars who usually take home the award 🥇
When Luis Enrique 🇪🇸 lists Fabian Ruiz’s honors 🇪🇸…
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) August 10, 2026
only the Ballon d’Or is missing 🌕. 👀😁
🎥 @PSG_inside pic.twitter.com/SOQ6iKPrir