Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente believes Spanish football deserves greater recognition at the Ballon d’Or and wants one of his players to lift the men’s award at the October 2026 ceremony.
De la Fuente is also among the candidates for the Johan Cruyff Trophy, which recognises the outstanding coach of the year, after guiding Spain to the 2026 World Cup glory.
Rodri became the first Spanish man in 64 years to win the Ballon d’Or when he was crowned the world’s best player in 2024, beating Brazil and Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior to the prize.
Spain’s previous male winner was Luis Suarez, who claimed the award in 1960.
Messi’s dominance
Despite Spain’s success at the 2010 World Cup, no Spanish player won the Ballon d’Or that year, with Lionel Messi dominating the award during that period.
Following Spain’s latest World Cup triumph in the United States, Canada and Mexico, De la Fuente believes the country should once again have a winner.
“History owes Spanish football more than one Ballon d’Or,” De la Fuente told a press conference ahead of Spain’s UEFA Nations League meeting with Croatia on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.
“It was a great joy when Rodrigo won it, and now I would wish another Spaniard to win it. It would give me the same thrill whichever of them won. Not just because of my relationship with one or another, but because in my view they are the best in the world in their positions.”
De la Fuente also argued that Spain’s achievements deserve recognition beyond the players, suggesting that members of his coaching staff should also be considered for individual honours.
“I think we’ve earned it, and by that, I include my entire staff – the same as others – to be candidates to win it.
“Putting yourself forward isn’t my style, but it would make me incredibly happy. Tell them to take note!”
Six Spanish players have been included among the 30 nominees for this year’s men’s Ballon d’Or.
Spanish stars shortlisted
Rodri is seeking a second triumph in three years after adding the World Cup Golden Ball to his list of achievements.
Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal is another leading Spanish contender. The forward enjoyed another outstanding season as Barcelona secured the La Liga title and also played a major role in Spain’s international success.
If he wins, Yamal would become the youngest player ever to receive the Ballon d’Or at the age of 19.
Pau Cubarsi, Marc Cucurella and Ferran Torres are also among the Spanish nominees, while Fabian Ruiz has again featured prominently for the national team.
Ruiz was influential during Spain’s run to the 2024 European Championship and has also won the UEFA Champions League in consecutive seasons with Paris Saint-Germain.
“I don’t know the criteria, but I’ve always said I want a Spaniard to win, both among players and coaches,” De la Fuente added.
“I think we’ve all earned it and time will tell. Being nominated is already a huge recognition and a source of pride; I’m happy.”
Spain head into their latest Nations League fixture against Croatia after extending their impressive run with a 3-2 victory over England at Wembley on Saturday.
The world champions will face Czechia on Saturday, October 3, 2026, before travelling to Split for another meeting with Croatia three days later.
