Harry Kane touted for Ballon d'Or despite England’s World Cup odds

Former England defender Jamie Carragher argued that Harry Kane should win this year’s Ballon d’Or, citing the striker’s consistent performances for club and country over the past twelve months. Carragher acknowledged, however, that the award traditionally goes to a player from the World Cup‑winning nation in a tournament year, and he doubted England could progress far enough to support Kane’s case.

Carragher praised Kane as the sole reason England still has any hope of success, saying that without the captain “we would already be heading home.” Yet he urged realism, noting England’s recent “unconvincing” displays and the slim chances of reaching the tournament final.

The commentary reflects broader debate over whether individual excellence can outweigh a nation’s overall tournament performance in the Ballon d’Or voting process.