Toni Kroos's Bold Ballon d'Or Pick

Retired German international Toni Kroos has given his verdict on the 2026 Ballon d'Or, naming Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain) as his top favourite to win the award, a pick he admitted himself was "probably not the most obvious choice".

A clear preference despite the surprise

• On Instagram, Kroos said Kvaratskhelia was "quite clearly number one" for him
• He described him as "the best player of last season" and "currently the best player at the best club team in the world"
• The Georgian winger finished last season with 19 goals and 11 assists in 48 matches across all competitions for PSG

Ahead of the World Cup's biggest names

In Kroos's view, stars who shone for their countries at the 2026 World Cup, such as Rodri, Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé, did not have a club season strong enough to merit the award this year. The Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled for 26 October in London.

Key facts

• Toni Kroos names Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as his favourite for the 2026 Ballon d'Or.
• The Georgian winger recorded 19 goals and 11 assists for PSG last season.
• The ceremony will take place on 26 October in London.