Lothar Matthäus said Michael Olise's ninth-place finish in the 2026 Ballon d'Or rankings was fair and said Harry Kane deserved the award more than anyone else. Olise was in London on Monday to back his teammate Kane, who won the Ballon d'Or.
Matthäus on Olise's ranking
Writing in an article for Sky Germany, carried by Yahoo Sport, Matthäus said: "Olise taking ninth place is fair."
He added: "You have to look at the names of the players who finished ahead of him in the ranking, such as Rodri, Ousmane Dembélé and Erling Haaland. Overall, it was an excellent vote. I congratulate everyone who organised the process and made the decisions."
Kane wins the award
Kane won the Ballon d'Or. GOAL said Kane's Ballon d'Or ended Bayern's 45-year wait for the prize.
Matthäus backs Kane
Matthäus said: "I am happy for everyone who receives an award, but I think Harry Kane is the player who deserved the Ballon d'Or more than anyone else."
He explained: "This award represents recognition for a player who delivered consistent levels throughout an entire season, entertained the fans, and was a role model to follow."
Olise in London
Olise was in London on Monday to back his teammate Harry Kane.