Matvey Safonov named among Ballon d’Or 2026 nominees

Matvey Safonov has entered the Ballon d’Or conversation after being included among the 10 nominees for the 2026 award for the world’s best goalkeeper. The recognition puts the Paris Saint-Germain player in contention to take over from Gianluigi Donnarumma, the previous winner.

Safonov, 27, is a Russia international who joined PSG from Krasnodar for €20 million in the 2024-25 season. His nomination follows PSG’s Champions League triumph, the main achievement behind his place on the shortlist. He has also faced criticism during his career for an unconventional goalkeeping style.

The other candidates are Yassine Bounou of Al-Hilal, Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, Joan Garcia of Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez, Edouard Mendy of Al-Ahli, Arsenal’s David Raya, Athletic Bilbao’s Unai Simon and Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha of Colo-Colo.

The Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for London on October 26. PSG and coach Luis Enrique are also in contention in the club and coach categories, while the wider men’s and women’s nominee lists are due to be announced on September 8.