Ballon d'Or nominees change clubs ahead of award ceremony

The 2026 summer transfer window has seen a notable shift in the careers of several Ballon d'Or nominees, with many embarking on new chapters at different clubs. These moves span across continents, including significant transfers to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States and high-profile switches within European football.

Among the prominent players changing clubs are Robert Lewandowski, who left FC Barcelona for MLS side Chicago Fire, and Antoine Griezmann, who ended his long tenure at Atlético Madrid to join Orlando City. Both strikers have multiple Ballon d'Or nominations to their names, with Lewandowski having placed second in 2021 and Griezmann achieving third place twice.

Other notable transfers include Brazilian midfielder Casemiro's move from Manchester United to Inter Miami, where he joins Lionel Messi. Bernardo Silva has also made a high-profile switch, leaving Manchester City for Real Madrid after nine trophy-filled years. Veteran striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returns to Spain, signing with Deportivo La Coruña after his spell at Marseille.

Defensive reinforcements have also occurred, with Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries moving from Inter Milan to Real Madrid. Spanish left-back Alejandro Grimaldo has returned to La Liga, joining Atlético Madrid from Bayer Leverkusen. These players, recognized for their individual excellence through Ballon d'Or nominations, are now set to make their mark in new environments.