Declan Rice has made his Ballon d’Or preference clear, revealing that he would love to see fellow England international Harry Kane win football’s most prestigious individual award.

Rice, who has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or for the second consecutive year, admitted that he is extremely proud to be among the players recognised for their performances. However, when asked who he would like to see lift the award, the Arsenal midfielder did not hesitate to throw his support behind Kane.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Rice said: “Second year in a row nominated, I’m very proud. You know who I want to win!”

He then made his choice explicit, adding: “I’d love to see Harry Kane win it. I wish him all the best in that.”

The comments underline the strong relationship and mutual respect between the two England stars. While Rice himself is among the elite players competing for the individual honour, his personal choice is firmly behind Kane.

Rice Proud of Another Ballon d’Or Nomination

Being nominated for the Ballon d’Or for a second consecutive year represents another significant achievement in Rice’s career.

The award recognises the best individual performers in world football, with nominations traditionally reflecting outstanding performances at both club and international level. For Rice, receiving recognition again demonstrates how highly his performances are regarded.

The Arsenal midfielder has established himself as one of the most important players in his team and has also become a key figure for England. His ability to contribute defensively while also influencing matches in possession has made him one of the most highly regarded midfielders in European football.

Despite receiving another nomination, however, Rice was quick to shift the attention towards Kane.

His statement, “You know who I want to win!”, immediately showed that he already had a particular candidate in mind.

Harry Kane Remains Rice’s Choice

Rice’s backing of Kane is particularly significant because both players represent England at international level.

Kane has been one of the most prolific goalscorers of his generation and has consistently featured among the world’s leading forwards. His ability to score goals, create chances and lead from the front has made him a central figure for both club and country.

For Rice, seeing Kane finally receive the Ballon d’Or would clearly be a special moment.

The midfielder’s message was also straightforward. Rather than simply saying Kane was one of the contenders, Rice openly stated that he would “love to see Harry Kane win it.”

That is a powerful endorsement from one of Kane’s England teammates.

A Friendly Battle Among England Stars

The Ballon d’Or conversation also highlights the remarkable quality available to England at the highest level of football.

Rice is competing for recognition alongside some of the biggest names in the sport, while Kane continues to be considered among the world’s elite forwards. England have increasingly found themselves with several players capable of competing for major individual honours.

Rice’s comments also demonstrate that competition for the award does not necessarily create rivalry between teammates.

Instead, the Arsenal star appears genuinely happy to see Kane receive recognition for his achievements. His comments reflect the camaraderie within the England squad and the respect that exists between players who have shared the international stage.

Kane Will Have Plenty of Support

Whether Kane ultimately wins the Ballon d’Or remains a question for the voters, but he certainly has the backing of Rice.

The England captain has spent years producing consistently impressive numbers and performing on some of football’s biggest stages. His goalscoring record and leadership qualities have made him one of the most respected players of his generation.

For Rice, those qualities appear to be enough to make Kane his preferred candidate.

The Arsenal midfielder could have used the opportunity to promote his own candidacy, especially after being nominated for the second year running. Instead, he chose to publicly support his England teammate.

That decision has already added another interesting angle to this year’s Ballon d’Or discussion.

Declan Rice Sends Clear Message

Rice’s message to Kane was simple but powerful: he wants his England teammate to win the Ballon d’Or and wishes him all the best in his pursuit of the award.

His comments also show the humility of a player who can appreciate individual recognition while still celebrating the achievements of another teammate.

For Arsenal supporters, Rice’s second consecutive nomination is another indication of his growing status in world football. For England fans, meanwhile, the comments provide another reminder of the strength and unity within the national team.

As the Ballon d’Or race continues to generate debate, Rice has made his position unmistakable.

He may be a nominee himself, but when it comes to choosing his winner, Declan Rice is backing Harry Kane.

And judging by his enthusiastic response, the Arsenal midfielder will be hoping that his England captain gets the recognition he believes he deserves.