Ballon d’Or 2026: Matvey Safonov best goalkeeper in the world?

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By: Manu Tournoux

Ballon d'Or 2026: Matvey Safonov best goalkeeper in the world?

PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov is one of ten nominated for the 2026 Ballon d’Or in the Goalkeeper of the Year category.

The list of ten nominated for the title of Goalkeeper of the Year, as part of the 70e edition of the Ballon d’Or, has fallen. And Matvey Safonov is one of them. Often criticized for his rather singular style, the Russian goalkeeper of PSG was chosen to succeed Gianlugi Donnarumma. A logical selection since he won the Champions League with the capital club.

The nine other candidates for this trophy are Yassine Bounou (Morocco, Al-Hilal), Thibaut Courtois (Belgium, Real Madrid), Joan Garcia (Spain, FC Barcelona), Gregor Kobel (Switzerland, Dortmund), Emiliano Martinez (Argentina, Aston Villa), Edouard Mendy (Senegal, Al-Ahli), David Raya (Spain, Arsenal), Unai Simon (Spain, Athletic Bilbao) and Vozinha (Cape Verde, Colo-Colo).

Full success for PSG?

Paris Saint-Germain and Luis Enrique could also be rewarded in the Club of the Year and Coach of the Year categories. The Ballon d’Or ceremony will not take place in Pars but in London, on Monday October 26. The male and female nominees for the prestigious trophy will be revealed this Tuesday, September 8. An announcement to follow live on our site.

Manu Tournoux

Written by:

Manu Tournoux

Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team. As an author for the website, his expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers. When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans.