Ballon d’Or 2026: Club of the Year Nominees Revealed

When the Ballon d’Or committee unveiled its 2026 shortlist, a handful of clubs instantly stood out. In the men’s Club of the Year category, Paris Saint‑Germain, Bayern Munich and Arsenal are the frontrunners, each having collected a glittering array of trophies during the 2025‑26 season.

PSG, the French powerhouse, arguably had the most spectacular campaign. They lifted the UEFA Champions League, added the Intercontinental Cup, the European Super Cup, and then swept the domestic scene by winning Ligue 1 and the French Super Cup. It was a season that left fans dreaming of a historic double‑digit haul.

Across the Channel, Arsenal finally reclaimed the Premier League crown, delivering a brand‑new era of success for the Gunners. Their triumph in England’s top flight earned them a well‑deserved spot among the nominees.

Not to be outdone, Germany’s Bayern Munich kept their domestic dominance alive, clinching the Bundesliga, the German Cup and the German Super Cup. The Bavarian trio’s consistency makes them a serious contender for the title.

South America is represented by Flamengo, the Brazilian giants who captured the Copa Libertadores, the national league and the Rio de Janeiro State Championship – a treble that sparked celebrations from Rio to Buenos Aires. Meanwhile, Norway’s modest Bodo/Glimt earned a nod after lifting the Norwegian Cup, reminding everyone that great stories can come from smaller leagues.

On the women’s side, FC Barcelona stands head‑and‑shoulders above the rest after an incredible four‑trophy sweep: the Women’s Champions League, the Spanish league, the Copa de la Reina and the Spanish Super Cup. Their dominance is the benchmark for the other nominees.

French side OL Lyonnes (Olympique Lyonnais Féminin) remain a force, securing a domestic treble of the French Championship, the French Cup and the French League Cup. England’s Manchester City earned a place after winning the Women’s Super League and the FA Cup, completing a clean double.

Bayern Munich’s women’s squad also made the shortlist, mirroring the men’s success with a domestic sweep of the German league, cup and super cup. Finally, Mexico’s Club América represented the CONCACAF region, having taken the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Mexican Closing Championship.

These clubs embody the season’s drama, brilliance and relentless pursuit of glory. As the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches, fans worldwide will be watching closely to see which outfit finally claims the coveted Club of the Year trophy.