Ballon d’Or 2026: ‘Complete footballer’ – Paul Dickov names player to win award

Former Arsenal striker Paul Dickov has tipped Declan Rice to beryllium the apical contender to triumph the Ballon d’Or, lone if the Gunners assistance the Champions League this season.

Dickov besides praised Rice, calling the England midfielder a “complete and fantastic footballer”.

“Declan is simply a wonderful, implicit player,” Dickov told MrQ, arsenic quoted by the Irish Mirror.

“Whether Arsenal triumph the Premier League oregon not, the Champions League is what truly matters for the Ballon d’Or.

“So if Arsenal spell connected and triumph the Champions League, past Declan Rice has successful with a large outcry for the Ballon d’Or.”

Rice joined Arsenal from Premier League broadside West Ham United and has been a cardinal subordinate for Mikel Arteta’s broadside truthful far.

Ballon d’Or 2026: ‘Complete footballer’ – Paul Dickov names subordinate to triumph award