The Ballon d’Or has kicked off its nomination process for the 2025/2026 season, revealing shortlists across several major categories as the ceremony marks its 70th year in London.
The award body announced nominees for Men’s Coach of the Year, Women’s Coach of the Year, Men’s Club of the Year, and Women’s Club of the Year via its official X account on Tuesday. Organizers also released nominations for Men’s and Women’s Striker of the Year, along with categories honoring rising young talent and standout goalkeepers who impressed throughout last season.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta headlines the race for Men’s Coach of the Year, leading a competitive field that includes Spain national team manager Luis de la Fuente, Aston Villa’s Unai Emery, Bayern Munich’s Vincent Kompany, and Paris Saint-Germain’s Luis Enrique.
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Arsenal also earned a nomination for Men’s Club of the Year, joining Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Bodø/Glimt, and Flamengo in a list that spans multiple continents and reflects a season of shifting power across European and South American football.
In the women’s game, FC Barcelona picked up a nomination for Women’s Club of the Year, competing against Bayern Munich, Club América, Manchester City, and OL Lyonnes for the honor. The spread of nominees highlights growing depth in women’s club football, with representation stretching from Spain to Mexico.
The Women’s Coach of the Year category features Jonatan Giráldez of OL Lyonnes, Andrée Jeglertz of Manchester City Women, Nils Nielsen of the Japan national team, Pere Romeu of FC Barcelona Femeni, and Elena Sadiku, who guided both Celtic FC Women and BK Häcken this season. Sadiku’s dual nomination underscores an unusual campaign that saw her manage two clubs simultaneously to strong results.
Further nominations, including individual player awards, are expected to follow as the Ballon d’Or ceremony builds toward its milestone 70th edition later this year.
