Saudi clubs launch major assault on Ballon d’Or: Mane and Quiñones!

“Al-Nassr” Senegalese forward Sadio Mane and “Al-Qadsiah” Mexican striker Julián Quiñones are set to be included in the 30-player shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or award presented by France Football.

TodayPress TV reports that insider Ben Jacobs said the performances of both players in the Saudi Pro League and at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been highly rated.

A record 10 players from PSG, winners of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League, are expected to feature on the final shortlist for the award.

It should be noted that last season, 34-year-old Sadio Mane recorded 24 goals and 12 assists in 55 appearances for club and country. He won the Saudi Arabian championship with “Al-Nassr”.

Meanwhile, 29-year-old Julián Quiñones was the Saudi Pro League’s top scorer last season with 33 goals. He scored 41 goals and provided five assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.

Namiq HUN