Ballon d’Or 2026: ‘No Chance’ – Graeme Souness Names Player That Won’t Win Award

Liverpool legend Graeme Souness has claimed that Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has no chance of winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

The winner of the prestigious individual award is scheduled to be announced next Monday in London, with Rice among the 30 players shortlisted following his impressive performances for club and country last season.

Despite Rice’s inclusion on the shortlist, Souness believes the England international will not win the award.

“Rodri did it [won the Ballon d’Or], Modric won it, so you know,” Souness said, referring to previous winners of the prestigious prize.

He continued his assessment of Rice’s chances, stating, “Declan Rice has no chance of winning the Ballon d’Or. He’s making the numbers up,” as quoted by Sports Uncensored.

Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham United in 2023 and has since become a regular first-team player under manager Mikel Arteta.

ALSO READ

• Ballon d’Or 2026: ‘He Performed Most’ – Steven Nzonzi Picks Player To Win Award
• Cristiano Ronaldo Leading Race For Greatest Ballon d’Or Win Of All Time

The England midfielder’s performances earned him a place among the 30 nominees for the 2026 award, with Souness’s comments adding to the discussion surrounding his chances of claiming football’s top individual honour.