Kane vs Olise: Muller's 'magic quality' could sway 2026 Ballon d'Or

Harry Kane and Michael Olise have been the driving forces behind a dominant season for Bayern Munich, but club legend Thomas Muller believes one holds a distinct advantage in the race for individual glory. Despite the England captain's record-breaking exploits in front of goal, the "magic quality" of his French team-mate may prove more seductive to the Ballon d’Or voters.

The 32-year-old Kane was crowned the 2025-26 European Golden Shoe after finding the net 36 times in 31 league matches and finished the campaign with 61 goals across all competitions. Kane called it "the best season of my career personally." UEFA confirmed the Ballon d'Or ceremony will be held in London on October 26.

Olise, by contrast, has been the creative heartbeat of the Munich side, contributing 22 goals and 31 assists across all competitions. Muller put the choice this way: "With his finishing and attacking qualities, Harry is the best striker I currently see. He's got a wide range of qualities, but he's not a player who can dribble past four people.

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