The 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist has been announced, with 34-year-old Al Nassr veteran Sadio Mane making the cut for the fifth time in his career.

Last season, Mane played 36 games for his club, contributing 14 goals and 9 assists, helping Al Nassr win the Saudi Pro League title. However, Cristiano Ronaldo was the team's top scorer, and João Félix was the league MVP. For the national team, Mane played 4 World Cup qualifiers, providing 1 assist.

The primary reason for Mane's inclusion is his standout performance as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations MVP. He delivered 2 goals and 2 assists in the tournament, helping Senegal reach the final, though they finished as runners-up.

This is Mane's fifth Ballon d'Or nomination. Most recently, he finished second in 2022. Previously, he placed fourth in 2019, 22nd in 2018, and 23rd in 2017.

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