Fabian Ruiz, the 30-year-old Paris Saint-Germain and Spain midfielder, spoke in the mixed zone following the celebrations for La Roja‘s 2026 World Cup victory last Sunday. He discussed the possibility of winning the Ballon d’Or, as well as his future—which involves a return to Real Betis—and the potential for sanctions against the Argentines following their behavior at the tournament.
Ruiz: “I was able to cap off a historic year”
Do you hope to win the Ballon d’Or?
Who wouldn’t want to win the Ballon d’Or? I’m delighted with my season; I won the Champions League and the World Cup. If I’m in the running, it would be an honor.
A special season?
I was lucky enough to win everything. The World Cup was the only one missing; the truth is, I was able to cap off a historic year, and I’m very happy with all the trophies I’ve won. The best trophy is the affection of the people—the welcome the whole city gave us.
Ruiz: “I can’t wait to come back”
Is a return to Real Betis still in the plans?
The truth is, yes. I’ve always said so. I’ve never hidden it. I can’t wait to come back. It’s getting closer day by day. I’m a Betis supporter, and I really hope to go back there one day.
Dani Ceballos to Betis?
I haven’t been able to speak to him… during the World Cup, I hardly spoke to anyone. But let’s hope his transfer goes through. And if he does return to Betis, I’ll be delighted for all the fans.
Ruiz: “They did something that goes against the spirit of sportsmanship”
Sanctions against the Argentines after the World Cup?
There are other issues that are beyond our control. That’s what I think. They did something that goes against the spirit of sportsmanship—the spirit of football. We celebrated the victory normally, just like any other team. That kind of behavior doesn’t reflect well on world football, and I am happy to have won the World Cup.
