PSG focuses Ballon d'Or campaign on Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has implemented a strategic communication plan for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, focusing its support on Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. While the club has a record ten players nominated for the individual award, management aims to prevent vote fragmentation by concentrating lobbying efforts on these two primary candidates.

In recent interviews, Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia have displayed strong team cohesion, with both players publicly endorsing one another for the trophy rather than campaigning for themselves. Kvaratskhelia specifically praised Dembélé’s ability to lead the team and his performance in high-pressure moments, such as his penalty in the Champions League final.

As part of this strategy, other nominees, including Fabian Ruiz, will not receive the same level of club promotion. Despite Ruiz's solid record, analysts suggest he lacks the high statistical output associated with Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia, which is often a deciding factor for voters.