Some FC Bayern players believe they have a real chance of finishing very high in the Ballon d’Or rankings. Among them is Luis Diaz. One former Bayern player goes even further.
Many people are talking about Harry Kane and Michael Olise when it comes to which players from the record-holding champions could make a splash at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
But Colombian Luis Diaz is also a candidate, as his national team teammate, James Rodriguez,recently confirmed.
Díaz a Candidate for the Ballon d’Or
Now a former Bayern player, Adolfo Valencia (58), has weighed in: “Lucho can and should be among the top contenders for the Ballon d’Or. His stats prove that he’s currently one of the best players in the world,” he told BILD.
Diaz has also made a name for himself at the 2026 World Cup in North America, leading Colombia to an opening victory over Uzbekistan with a goal and a spectacular assist.
These are performances that are sure to cause a sensation. Especially since Diaz won three domestic titles with FCB and not only reached the Champions League semifinals but also racked up numerous scoring points.
However, Valencia also notes that the Bayern star still needs to achieve something special. “To win the Ballon d’Or, it’s usually not enough to play outstandingly in the league and in the cup. You also have to go far in the Champions League and at major tournaments with your national team,” said the former Bayern pro.
He continued: “That’s why I currently see Ousmane Dembélé as one of the top favorites, after he won the Champions League with PSG. He also has a good chance of winning the title with France at the World Cup. The same goes for Olise and Kane, who, like Lucho, have had a very strong season with Bayern.“