🏆 Fabian Ruiz: Why Not Dream of the Ballon d’Or?
Paris Saint-Germain and Spain midfielder Fabian Ruiz has raised his ambitions regarding the 2026 Ballon d’Or, making it clear that dreaming of one of football’s biggest individual prizes is not out of the question.
Ruiz’s ambitions come after an impressive season on both the team and individual levels, with the midfielder playing an important role for Paris Saint-Germain and the Spanish national team.
During an interview with Spanish newspaper AS, Ruiz was asked whether he could win the Ballon d’Or, and his response was direct: “Why not dream of it?”
⭐ Ruiz Explains His Ballon d’Or Ambitions
The PSG midfielder explained that the current season represents an important stage in his career, highlighting the number of trophies he has collected in recent years.
Ruiz said: “The truth is that, at team level, I was the player who won the most trophies, I think it was seven trophies in recent years. I’m very happy with this season and with what I’ve achieved. I feel important at Paris Saint-Germain and with the national team, and that is important for any player.”
He added: “The Ballon d’Or is a great award, something every player wants to win. I’m happy that people talk about me and recognize my efforts. I’ll try to finish the season as high as possible, and why not dream about it?”
The Spanish midfielder also described individual recognition as a natural ambition for footballers who have delivered strong performances over the course of a season.
⚽ Attackers Are Not the Only Players in the Race
Ruiz believes the Ballon d’Or conversation should not be limited to forwards, arguing that players in other positions have received greater recognition in recent years.
He pointed to the success of compatriot Rodri, who won the award in 2024, as well as former winner Luka Modric, as examples of midfielders reaching the top of individual football honors.
Ruiz said: “In recent years, other positions have gained a lot of importance and value, and I think that is very important.”
He continued: “A team is made up of 11 players, including substitutes, and I think a defender or goalkeeper is no less important than a striker.”
Ruiz believes this message is particularly relevant for younger players, encouraging them to recognize the importance of different positions instead of focusing exclusively on goals.
He added: “Matches are decided by scoring goals, but ultimately winning is the effort of the entire team.”
🔥 Praise for Teammate Ousmane Dembele
Ruiz also praised his Paris Saint-Germain teammate Ousmane Dembele, who won the latest Ballon d’Or, highlighting the Frenchman’s team-first mentality.
Ruiz said: “Ousmane is a very friendly person, and he always says teamwork is the key to individual awards, and that without his team’s help he would not have achieved it. He deserved it.”
The Spain international also believes that every player included among the 30 Ballon d’Or nominees has a legitimate reason for being there after producing a strong season.
When asked about his personal preference, Ruiz said: “If one of my teammates in the dressing room wins, that would be much better.”
🧠 Luis Enrique and De la Fuente’s Influence
Ruiz highlighted the important role played by Luis Enrique, Paris Saint-Germain’s head coach, and Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s national-team manager, in his standout season.
The midfielder was a regular for PSG in the Champions League final and FIFA Club World Cup final, while also maintaining an impressive record with Spain.
Ruiz has made 50 appearances for Spain without losing a match, a record he discussed humorously.
He said: “Sometimes I don’t want to say it out loud so I don’t break the streak, but yes, 50 matches with the national team without losing. Let’s hope it lasts longer.”
He added: “That would be good for me, but above all for the national team.”
🇪🇸 A Message of Appreciation to Luis de la Fuente
Ruiz concluded by reflecting on the support he has received from his coaches and teammates, recalling Luis de la Fuente’s famous assessment of him before Euro 2024: “If his name wasn’t Fabian, he would be more famous.”
The PSG midfielder emphasized the importance of being appreciated by the people closest to him.
He said: “I’ve always said it, I’m happy with the affection I see from people, and I’m valued by those who matter to me and those close to me.”
He added: “My coaches and my teammates, that is what matters most to me, the people I spend every day with. Having your work appreciated is always something beautiful.”
