Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe believes he has a strong chance of winning the Ballon d’Or this year following another outstanding campaign for club and country.
The France captain enjoyed a prolific season with Real Madrid, scoring 42 goals in 44 appearances. However, despite his individual brilliance, the Spanish giants ended the campaign without a major trophy.
Mbappe, 27, also produced a record-breaking performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he claimed the Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals. His goals took his World Cup career tally to 22, the highest total ever recorded in the competition.
France, however, missed out on the title after finishing fourth.
With the Ballon d’Or ceremony scheduled for 26 October, Mbappe believes his performances have strengthened his claim for the 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 who speak about the Ballon d’Or and me. 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, who finished third in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings while playing for Paris Saint-Germain, remains confident in his ability despite facing strong competition.
“I always think I’m the best [player in the world], but everyone has their own opinion,” he said.
“Maybe people think different ways. I don’t think it’s a discussion we need to have.
“Of course, this year could be good for me to win the Ballon d’Or. But journalists vote.”
Despite Mbappe’s confidence, he is not currently the bookmakers’ favourite to win the award.
England captain Harry Kane is reportedly leading the race after scoring a club-record 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern Munich last season and helping the German club secure the domestic double. Kane also scored six goals at the World Cup.
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal is regarded as the second favourite after helping Barcelona win La Liga and Spain claim the World Cup.
His Barcelona and Spain teammate Rodri, formerly of Manchester City, is also among the leading contenders and is currently ranked third in the betting.
With the final vote ultimately decided by journalists, Mbappe will have to wait until the October ceremony to discover whether his remarkable individual performances will be enough to earn him the most coveted individual prize in football.
