Ballon d’Or 2026: David Silva picks Fabián Ruiz

While several names regularly feature among the contenders for the Ballon d’Or, Fabián Ruiz could represent a much less expected candidacy. The Spanish midfielder won the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain last season before lifting the World Cup with Spain during the summer. For David Silva, these successes place his compatriot among the players who deserve to be considered.

David Silva puts Fabián Ruiz ahead of the widely touted favourites

Speaking to El Partidazo de COPE, David Silva highlighted the importance of the collective, while naming Fabián Ruiz if he had to choose one particular player.

For me, the most important thing is the work of the whole team, because without it, you cannot win. But if I had to name one person, it would be Fabián, because he has won the most trophies over the past two years.

Silva particularly believes that the PSG midfielder has played an important role both at club and international level:

He has been a key player for PSG and the national team. He is not always appreciated at his true value, I don't know why, and yet he is a fantastic footballer. I like him a lot. He did his job quietly and did it incredibly well.

The choice is all the more notable because Fabián Ruiz is mentioned less often than players such as Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi, Harry Kane or Kylian Mbappé in discussions surrounding the Ballon d’Or. Silva could also have mentioned Rodri, but points out that the latter has already won the trophy.

A recent trophy haul that strengthens his candidacy

Fabián Ruiz is indeed coming off a particularly trophy-laden period with PSG and Spain. Last season, he won the Champions League with the Parisian club as well as the French championship, before adding the UEFA Super Cup to his honours.

With the Spanish national team, his run at the World Cup is also an important factor in the debate. He took part in all eight matches played by Spain, although he started four of those games on the bench. This regular presence in teams that have won the biggest competitions therefore helps explain the argument put forward by David Silva.

Aliou Toundé |

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