AFCON 2025
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé has backed himself to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, insisting that he has strong arguments to claim the individual award.
Speaking in an interview with France Football, which organises the Ballon d’Or, Mbappé said he believes no player had a better season than him and pointed to his scoring record at the World Cup among his reasons for being confident.
“I have the idea that I can win it this year,” Mbappé said. “No player was better than me last season. I have arguments to win it, such as being the top scorer in World Cup history.”
The French forward also acknowledged that he did not win a major team title last season but argued that the Ballon d’Or is an individual award.
“I would vote for myself,” Mbappé added with a laugh during the 53-minute interview.
Mbappé also discussed Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, describing the two legends as players in a category of their own.
“Both he and Cristiano, in their category there are only the two of them. There is a before and an after,” he said. “There is no problem in thinking that you are not as good as Messi or Ronaldo.”
Reflecting on his first season at Real Madrid, Mbappé said the experience, including the criticism and boos he received, provided important lessons.
“Being at Real Madrid is a privilege and a lesson about what we have to improve to do better this season,” he said.
Mbappé also praised José Mourinho, who he said impressed him with his intelligence and clear direction for the team.
Looking ahead, the 27-year-old said he believes he has developed into a more complete player and still has areas to improve.
“Defensively, I can do more to help my teams. Offensively, I can be even more effective,” Mbappé said.
He also named Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, Estevão, Arda Güler, Endrick, Warren Zaïre-Emery and Désiré Doué among the young players he admires.
The Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled to take place next month, with Mbappé among the leading contenders for the award.
