Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has expressed disappointment with Vitinha’s 14th-place finish in the 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings, insisting that the Portuguese midfielder deserved a much higher position.

The 26-year-old played an important role in PSG’s successful campaign, helping the French champions secure their second consecutive UEFA Champions League title.

Vitinha arrived at the London Palladium on October 26 with several achievements to his name, including selection in the Champions League Team of the Season and another impressive campaign in PSG’s midfield.

However, his 14th-place finish represented a significant decline from his third-place position in the 2025 edition. He also finished behind teammate Achraf Hakimi, who occupied 13th place.

Speaking at a press conference at PSG’s Campus in Poissy on Thursday, October 29, ahead of their Ligue 1 fixture against Le Havre, Enrique praised the midfielder’s abilities and contribution to the team.

According to Goal, Enrique said: “We know him well, so we’re not surprised. It’s a real pleasure to have a player with such technical and physical ability.” He added: “His level is incredible. We’re very pleased to have a player of his calibre, even though he wasn’t ranked as highly as he deserves to be in the Ballon d’Or rankings.” The Spaniard further insisted: “He is incredibly talented… he deserves a better ranking in the Ballon d’Or award.”

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Enrique said he was pleased that discussions surrounding the Ballon d’Or had come to an end, despite his disagreement with Vitinha’s ranking. Other PSG players also featured in the rankings, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia finishing sixth, Ousmane Dembélé seventh and Fabián Ruiz 10th. PSG retained the Club of the Year award for the second consecutive time, although no player from the club made the top five in 2026.