Dembele, Mbappe, Yamal and Kane Lead Ballon d'Or Shortlist

Ousmane Dembele has emerged as one of the favourites for the Ballon d'Or after being named on the shortlist for the award, according to a report by Al Jazeera.

The France forward is listed alongside Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal and Harry Kane as contenders for the honour, which recognises the world's best footballer over the preceding season.

Al Jazeera's report did not provide further details on the full list of nominees or the criteria used to determine the shortlist.

The Ballon d'Or, awarded annually, has traditionally been decided by a panel of journalists and football experts who vote based on individual and team performances, as well as personal conduct.

Details of the ceremony date and the eventual winner have not yet been confirmed in the available reporting.