Müller Backs Olise For Ballon D’Or, Del Piero Supports Kvaratskhelia

According to Ireporter Online, Bayern Munich veteran Thomas Müller has given French winger Michael Olise a significant boost in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, suggesting he is a stronger contender than his teammate Harry Kane despite the English striker’s elite status in world football.

Müller, speaking to SportBild, praised Kane as the most complete striker he currently sees, highlighting his exceptional finishing and wide attacking qualities. However, he noted that Ballon d’Or voting often favours players with a greater “artistic” and expressive style of play.

He explained that while Kane remains the more influential overall player, individuals who display flair, creativity, and unpredictability tend to stand out more in global awards consideration. According to him, Olise’s dribbling ability, elegance on the ball, and “dance-like” style give him a unique edge that cannot be easily taught, describing the Bayern winger as a “performer” capable of delivering decisive moments.

Olise enjoyed an impressive campaign for Bayern Munich, registering 15 goals and 19 assists as the club secured back-to-back Bundesliga titles.

Meanwhile, former Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero has offered a contrasting view in the Ballon d’Or debate, backing Paris Saint-Germain star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as his leading candidate for football’s most prestigious individual honour following PSG’s UEFA Champions League success over Arsenal.

Del Piero, speaking as a pundit for Sky, argued that the Georgian winger’s consistency, influence, and all-round attacking output place him ahead of other contenders this season. He stressed that Kvaratskhelia’s performances in goals, assists, and overall impact have been unmatched.

Kvaratskhelia capped off a stellar European campaign by winning the UEFA Champions League Player of the Season award after recording 10 goals and six assists in the competition. He is widely regarded as one of the standout performers of the tournament.