[ad_1]
Fabian Ruiz has emerged as one of the most compelling figures in world soccer, distinguished not merely by raw goal involvement numbers, but by his immense impact across two dominant sides: Paris Saint-Germain and the Spain national team. Backed by public endorsements from head coach Luis Enrique and teammate Vitinha, Ruiz recently addressed his chances of capturing the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
While strikers Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane delivered prolific goalscoring totals over the campaign, the 2025-26 season carried extra prestige with the combination of the UEFA Champions League and the 2026 World Cup. Within that context and evaluating the sheer weight of silverware, Ruiz stands out as the singular figure who anchored both the European champions and the World Cup winners.
When asked about potential Ballon d’Or candidates during a UEFA Super Cup press conference, Vitinha stated his case clearly: “There are many good players who can win the Ballon d’Or this year. For me, I think it would be normal to have a PSG player like (Kvicha) Kvaratskhelia after his great season in the Champions League, Ousmane Dembele, who has had an excellent campaign, or Fabian, who has won everything.”
While acknowledging other prominent international candidates, the Portuguese midfielder maintained his primary focus on his club teammates. “For me, it should go to one of those three players. But there are many players like Kane or Mbappe who also deserve it. However, I would vote for a Paris Saint-Germain player for the Ballon d’Or,” Vitinha affirmed.
Those sentiments were echoed by manager Luis Enrique during a training session featured on PSG’s official media channels, where he was captured listing Ruiz’s accomplishments: “Fabian Ruiz has won the World Cup, the Euros two years ago, back-to-back Champions Leagues, the Nations League…” When a team member remarked, “All that is missing is the Ballon d’Or,” the manager responded with an emphatic nod.
see also
Luis Enrique matches Alex Ferguson’s European trophy record after PSG’s 2026 UEFA Super Cup win
Following a 2-1 victory against Aston Villa, Fabian Ruiz and PSG secured back-to-back UEFA Super Cup titles, becoming only the third team in history to achieve the feat alongside AC Milan (1989–90) and Real Madrid (2016–17). Having reported back to squad training on Monday after his World Cup campaign, Ruiz entered as a second-half substitute against the Villans and remains poised to serve as an indispensable fixture for Luis Enrique in the upcoming season.
Fabian Ruiz evaluates his Ballon d’Or credentials
After dominating domestic competition in France, PSG went on to capture their second consecutive Champions League title. Ruiz then cemented a starting spot for Spain over FC Barcelona star Pedri, guiding La Roja to their second World Cup title. The 2026-27 campaign opened in familiar fashion, with the Spaniard lifting yet another European trophy.
Speaking to Spanish outlet Marca, Ruiz reflected on his trophy-laden run: “The truth is that this past year, this last season, has been incredible, and what better way to start another one than by winning another title. Honestly, I’m very fortunate to be able to win so many trophies, and we have to keep working to keep winning more.”
Addressing the growing public discourse surrounding his candidacy, the midfielder welcomed the recognition. “The truth is people tell me that a lot. For me, it’s a source of pride that they talk about me being on the list,” Ruiz stated. “In terms of titles, I don’t think I’m lacking, and honestly, it’s an honor to be there. Hopefully I can win it—why not?” he concluded.
Fabian Ruiz: The tactical engine for club and country
Far beyond a conventional midfielder, Ruiz serves as a tactical engine for Luis Enrique’s tactical system, offering fluidity, space coverage, and versatility as a central builder, wide operator, or deep pivot. Furthermore, he has acted as a lucky charm for PSG, winning all four cup finals he has featured in with the club: the 2023-24 Coupe de France, the 2024-25 and 2025-26 UEFA Champions Leagues, and the 2026 UEFA Super Cup.
Fabian Ruiz #8 of Spain celebrates with the FIFA World Cup. (Carl Recine/Getty Images)
His impact for the Spanish national team is equally remarkable, highlighted by a historic 50-match unbeaten run with La Roja. Since making his senior international debut in 2019, Spain have avoided defeat in every match featuring Ruiz (35 wins, 15 draws), making him an indispensable piece during title victories at the 2024 UEFA Nations League, Euro 2024, and the 2026 World Cup.
[ad_2]
Source link