Colombia captain James Rodriguez believes teammate Luis Diaz has a genuine chance of winning the Ballon d’Or if Colombia enjoy a deep run at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Rodriguez made the bold prediction ahead of Colombia’s return to football’s biggest tournament, highlighting Diaz’s outstanding performances for Bayern Munich during the 2025-26 season. The winger played a crucial role in Bayern’s domestic success and now carries the hopes of a nation aiming to make a strong impact on the global stage.Diaz arrives at the World Cup after the best club season of his career. The 29-year-old helped Bayern Munich secure both the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal titles. He finished the campaign with 26 goals and 23 assists across all competitions. His impressive form has placed him among the most dangerous attackers in Europe. With Colombia returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2018, many fans believe Diaz could be one of the tournament’s standout stars.James Rodriguez believes World Cup success could boost Luis Diaz’s Ballon d’Or chancesJames Rodriguez, who won the Golden Boot at the 2014 FIFA World Cup with six goals, spoke highly of Luis Diaz ahead of the tournament. The veteran midfielder said the Bayern Munich winger is already among the world’s best players and could enter the Ballon d’Or conversation if Colombia reach the World Cup final.According to Rodriguez, Diaz currently ranks among the top five footballers in the world based on his performances over the last season. He suggested that a successful World Cup campaign could elevate the winger’s profile even further and put him in contention for football’s most prestigious individual award.Diaz has enjoyed a remarkable rise since joining Bayern Munich from Liverpool in 2025. The move revitalized his career and allowed him to produce the most productive season of his professional journey. Alongside his 26 goals, he provided 23 assists and was one of Bayern’s most influential players throughout the campaign. Only teammate Michael Olise recorded more league assists than Diaz during the season.Colombia have been drawn in Group K alongside Uzbekistan, DR Congo, and Portugal. Their World Cup campaign begins on June 17 against Uzbekistan. Expectations are high as the South American side looks to make a deep run in the tournament.A strong World Cup performance could significantly improve Diaz’s chances of becoming the first Colombian player to win the Ballon d’Or. No Colombian has ever claimed the award since it was introduced in 1956. Former striker Radamel Falcao came closest with a fifth-place finish in 2012, while James Rodriguez finished eighth after his memorable World Cup campaign in 2014.Get the latest Sports news and live updates. Download the TOI App.