Kylian Mbappé believes his remarkable performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have strengthened his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or for the first time in his career.
The France captain enjoyed a historic tournament, scoring 10 goals to finish as the World Cup’s Golden Boot winner. His goals also took his career tally at the tournament to 22, making him the highest-scoring player in World Cup history.
Despite his impressive individual achievements, Mbappé has never won the Ballon d’Or. The Real Madrid forward, however, accepts that his performances have naturally placed him among the leading candidates for this year’s award.
Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League meeting with Inter Milan, Mbappé said playing for one of football’s biggest clubs inevitably brings attention to individual awards.
He also pointed to his achievements at the World Cup, saying he had made history at what is widely regarded as the biggest stage in international football.
“I have the feeling that it’s a good year for that,” Mbappé said, while acknowledging that the final decision rests with the voters.
Mbappé Focused On More Than Individual Awards
Although Mbappé is enjoying a strong individual run, his time at Real Madrid has not yet produced the major team trophies many expected.
Since joining the Spanish giants in 2024, the French forward has continued to score regularly, but Real Madrid have struggled to match his individual success with major silverware.
Mbappé was also asked about comparisons between himself, Ousmane Dembélé and Barcelona’s Raphinha, particularly regarding their contributions beyond scoring goals.
The Frenchman acknowledged that there are areas of his game that can improve but rejected direct comparisons with other forwards.
He insisted that every player has different responsibilities and qualities, while maintaining that his own game involves more than simply putting the ball in the net.
Trophies Still Matter
Real Madrid coach José Mourinho recently suggested that Mbappé could sacrifice some of his goal numbers if doing so helped the team win more trophies.
Mbappé said he would accept scoring fewer goals if it resulted in titles, but argued that there was no reason why a player could not achieve both individual and collective success.
The forward wants to continue scoring at a high level while also helping Real Madrid compete for major honours.
Champions League Challenge
The Ballon d’Or discussion comes as Mbappé prepares for another major challenge with Real Madrid.
The Spanish club are set to face Inter Milan in their opening Champions League league-phase fixture, with Mourinho hoping his team can respond after suffering their first defeat of the season against Real Betis.
For Mbappé, the coming months could be crucial. His World Cup exploits have already strengthened his Ballon d’Or case, but continued performances and success with Real Madrid could ultimately determine whether he finally gets his hands on the prestigious individual prize.
With the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony approaching, Mbappé appears ready to embrace the pressure and the expectations surrounding his name.
