Teddy Sheringham questions Harry Kane’s Ballon d’Or chances
Teddy Sheringham has delivered a blunt assessment of Harry Kane’s Ballon d’Or prospects, insisting the England captain simply hasn’t done enough where it matters most, reports BritPanorama.
Despite an impressive tally of 61 goals in just 51 matches for Bayern Munich during the 2025/26 season, Sheringham believes that Kane’s inability to secure silverware in Europe’s premier club competition negates his achievements.
Kane also scored six times at the World Cup, helping guide England to a third-place finish. However, for Sheringham, individual excellence without accompanying team accolades fails to meet the standards set for the prestigious award.
The 33-year-old forward is amongst the 30-man shortlist for this year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, which is set to take place on 26 October in London.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Sheringham was forthright in his critique. “Would he get my vote? Not really,” he stated, acknowledging Kane’s remarkable season but insisting that such awards typically favour players who excel on significant stages.
“I think he’s had a phenomenal season, but the Ballon d’Or winner is normally one that wins the Champions League or the World Cup, or whatever is there at that moment,” he explained. His verdict was uncompromising: “He didn’t quite do that, so he’s an also-ran for me. Sorry about that, Harry!”
In addition to his goal-scoring record, Kane contributed seven assists, but ultimately, he was unable to claim any major trophies.
When asked who he would endorse for the honour, Sheringham pointed to Rodri, the Spanish midfielder who won the award in 2024. Now at Barcelona after a summer transfer, Rodri had a successful final season with Manchester City, lifting both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, while playing a key role in Spain’s World Cup triumph.
“He’s a leader, his teams normally win week in, week out. Manchester City, Spain,” Sheringham asserted. He added that Rodri’s winning pedigree stands out in the current landscape, regardless of the club he represents.
Among the nominees, Fabian Ruiz is notably the only player who secured both Champions League and World Cup glory this year, showcasing a remarkable season with Paris Saint-Germain and the Spanish national team.
The shortlist features a plethora of renowned talents, including record eight-time winner Lionel Messi, alongside emerging stars such as Lamine Yamal, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland.
With the ceremony on the horizon, anticipation builds for what promises to be a captivating event amid the grandeur of London.
As the football world awaits the announcement, the debate over merit and recognition continues, underscoring the complex interplay between individual brilliance and team success — a persistent tension that shapes the narrative of sports.
