GistReel
Kylian Mbappe believes 2026 could be the year he finally wins the Ballon d’Or after another prolific campaign for club and country.
The Real Madrid forward scored 42 goals in 44 appearances for his club last season, although his individual numbers were not enough to prevent Madrid from ending the campaign without a major trophy.
Mbappe also claimed the World Cup Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals, taking his overall World Cup tally to a record 22. France, however, finished fourth at the tournament.
Mbappe embraces Ballon d’Or expectations
The 27-year-old accepts that playing for Real Madrid naturally places him among the leading candidates for football’s most prestigious individual award.
“I think when you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, people associate you with this award,” Mbappe said.
“There are many people that speak about me and the Ballon d’Or. Of course I’ve made history in the most important competition. Maybe it’s a good year for this but people can vote according to what they think.”
Mbappe has never won the award, with his best finish coming in 2023 when he placed third during his time at Paris St-Germain.
Despite his confidence, the Frenchman insists the final decision belongs to the journalists who cast the votes.
“Of course this year could be good for me to win the Ballon d’Or. But journalists vote,” he added.
Trophy gap could work against Real Madrid star
Mbappe’s individual record is difficult to overlook, but his lack of major success with Real Madrid could prove significant in the Ballon d’Or race.
He has scored 90 goals in 107 appearances since joining the Spanish giants from Monaco, yet remains without a major trophy in his first two years at the Bernabeu.
His former club PSG, meanwhile, have won the Champions League in both seasons since his departure, having never lifted the trophy before.
“I can’t change it,” Mbappe said when asked about PSG’s success after his exit.
“The truth is that I really don’t care. I know how to analyse football, I know why.”
The forward has still enjoyed remarkable individual success, winning eight consecutive league Golden Boots across Ligue 1 and La Liga, as well as two World Cup and two Champions League scoring titles.
Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Rodri are also among the leading contenders.
The award will be presented on 26 October, with Mbappe hoping his remarkable scoring record and World Cup performance will finally be enough to earn him the prize.