Arsenal's Rice, Saliba and Gabriel Nominated for 2026 Ballon d'Or

Arsenal have three players on the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist, with Declan Rice, William Saliba and Gabriel all recognised after the club's Premier League title win and run to the Champions League final.

  • Players nominated: Declan Rice, William Saliba and Gabriel
  • Achievement: Premier League champions, Champions League finalists
  • Ceremony: October 26 in London (70th anniversary)
  • Also nominated: Alessia Russo and Mariona Caldentey (Women's Ballon d'Or), Mikel Arteta (coach), Arsenal (club of the year)
  • Title wait ended: First league title in 22 years

Confirmed nominations

Declan Rice returns to the shortlist after placing 27th last year. William Saliba and Gabriel earn their first nominations. The trio were central to Arsenal's control, structure and reliability.

What was said

The source reports that Arsenal's Ballon d'Or recognition "reflects a season of real weight" and that "individual nominations follow collective success."

The numbers

  • 22 years – Arsenal's wait for the league title, now ended
  • 3 – Arsenal players on the men's Ballon d'Or shortlist
  • 27th – Rice's position in last year's Ballon d'Or voting
  • 70 – anniversary of the award

Analysis: Why these three earn their place

Arsenal's season was built on defensive solidity and midfield authority. Rice gave Arteta's midfield consistency all campaign, while Saliba and Gabriel formed one of Europe's best centre-back pairings – the shortlist finally acknowledges that.

Goalkeeper David Raya misses the main shortlist despite a strong season, but earns a Yashin Trophy nomination – a recognition of his contributions.

Talking points

  • Was Raya harshly overlooked for the main Ballon d'Or list despite his clean sheets and composure?
  • Do Arsenal's three nominations signal they are now truly among Europe's elite?
  • Can Saliba and Gabriel be considered the best centre-back duo in world football?
  • Will this shortlist become routine if Arsenal maintain their standards?

What happens next

The Ballon d'Or ceremony takes place on October 26 in London. Harry Kane is reportedly the leading contender after a big season with Bayern Munich. For Arsenal, the focus will be on whether they can build on this recognition with continued success.

Frequently asked questions

Which Arsenal players are nominated for the Ballon d'Or?

Declan Rice, William Saliba and Gabriel are the three Arsenal players on the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist.

Why did David Raya not get a Ballon d'Or nomination?

Raya was not on the main shortlist but received a Yashin Trophy nomination for best goalkeeper.

When and where is the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony?

The ceremony is on October 26 in London, marking the award's 70th anniversary.

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