World Cup 2026: Paul Merson predicts Golden Ball, Golden Boot winners, dark horses

Arsenal legend, Paul Merson, has predicted the Golden Ball and Golden Boot winners astatine the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament.

Merson besides predicted Colombia and Mexico to beryllium the acheronian horses of the tournament.

In his file for Sportskeeda,  Merson backed France skipper Kylian Mbappe and England skipper Harry Kane to triumph the Golden Ball and Golden Boot of the tournament.

“Golden Ball – Kylian Mbappe (France)

Kylian Mbappe is an evident choice. He should people tons of goals and spell heavy successful the tournament,” Merson said.

“Golden Boot – Harry Kane (England).

It’s betwixt Kane and Mbappe for me. I would similar to judge it’s the England captain.

“Dark Horses – Colombia and Mexico

Colombia tin astonishment a batch of people. They are a decent team. The humidity volition marque a monolithic quality successful this tournament, and they person players who are suited to these conditions.

“I besides fancy Mexico. I cognize they haven’t had to suffice due to the fact that they are 1 of the hosts, but they produced immoderate large results successful caller times.”