Emile Heskey Backs Harry Kane for Ballon d’Or 2026 but Tips Lamine Yamal to Win
Former England striker Emile Heskey believes Harry Kane deserves to be considered among the leading candidates for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. However, the ex-Three Lions forward, now working as a pundit for BT Sport, expects Barcelona star Lamine Yamal to claim the prestigious award.
Kane has been at the centre of attention in England after equalling Peter Shilton’s record of 125 international appearances during the 3-0 victory over Croatia at Wembley on Wednesday, October 7. The Bayern Munich striker also scored twice, taking his England tally to 91 goals and further extending his status as the nation’s all-time leading scorer.
Heskey, who earned 62 caps for England and represented his country at several major tournaments, was asked for his view on the 2026 Ballon d’Or race. While the conversation has increasingly focused on Yamal and Kylian Mbappe, who are expected to be among the leading contenders, Heskey believes Kane should not be overlooked.
“Harry Kane could certainly be in the Ballon d’Or conversation. But I think Lamine Yamal will win it. He is a new face of football and will have the support of everyone who has a vote. I would love Kane to win it, but Yamal will win it this year,” Heskey told Casinolyze.
Kane produced remarkable numbers last season, scoring 73 goals for club and country while playing a key role in Bayern Munich’s campaign under Vincent Kompany. His individual output has strengthened his case for the award, particularly after another prolific international period with England.
Yamal, however, has an equally compelling résumé. The Barcelona winger helped the Catalan giants retain the LaLiga title before playing a major role in Spain’s successful 2026 World Cup campaign during the summer.
Heskey’s prediction therefore reflects the strength of the Ballon d’Or race, with Kane’s extraordinary goalscoring record going up against Yamal’s influence for both Barcelona and Spain. While the former England striker would prefer to see his compatriot win, he believes the Spanish teenager has the edge when the award is decided later this year.
