Kylian Mbappe believes the time could finally be right for him to claim the Ballon d’Or. The Real Madrid forward enjoyed another huge individual season, but his lack of major silverware has left one question hanging over his growing list of achievements.
Mbappe scored 42 goals in 44 games for Madrid last season. Yet the Spanish giants ended the campaign without a trophy, leaving the Frenchman with another reminder that individual brilliance does not always guarantee team success.
His case is also strengthened by his exploits at the World Cup. Mbappe won the Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals, taking his career total at the tournament to a record 22, although France could only finish fourth.
“I think when you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, people associate you with this award,” Mbappe said. He added that he had “made history in the most important competition” and admitted this “could be a good year” for him.
The competition, however, is fierce. Harry Kane is the bookmakers’ favourite after scoring 61 goals in 51 games for Bayern Munich, while Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal is also among the leading contenders.
Rodri is another name in the race, adding even more competition for an award Mbappe has never won. His best finish came in 2023, when he placed third while playing for Paris Saint-Germain.
Mbappe also has little interest in looking back at PSG’s success since his departure. The French club have won the Champions League in both seasons since he left, despite never winning it during his time in Paris.
“I can’t change it,” he said. “The truth is that I really don’t care.”
Now, Mbappe wants to look forward. With another Champions League campaign ahead, his focus is simple, win matches, win trophies and give voters fewer reasons to look elsewhere.
