This could be year I win Ballon d'Or, says Mbappe
September 7, 2026 12:42
Kylian Mbappé has suggested this season could be the one in which he finally collects a first Ballon d'Or. The Real Madrid forward pointed to his move to the Spanish giants and his recent international form as factors that could strengthen his case, while stressing that the outcome is determined by journalists' votes.
Mbappé arrives to the new campaign off the back of a prolific 2023-24 club season and a standout World Cup, but he acknowledged that trophies and voters' opinions will ultimately decide who lifts the award.
KEY CONTEXT
- Last season Mbappé scored 42 goals in 44 appearances for his club and won the World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals, taking his total at World Cups to a record 22.
- He moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid and has scored heavily at every stop in his career: he is PSG’s all-time top scorer (256 goals in 308 games), France’s record goalscorer (66 in 106), and has 90 goals in 107 matches for Real Madrid.
- Despite personal numbers and honours, he has not yet secured a major trophy since joining Real Madrid two years ago; PSG won the Champions League in both seasons after his departure.
- His best Ballon d’Or finish to date was third place in 2023 when he was still at PSG.
- The Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for 26 October; bookmakers currently list Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Rodri ahead of Mbappé in early betting.
WHY IT MATTERS
Mbappé’s comments underline how club profile, international achievements and voters’ perceptions all feed into Ballon d’Or debates. His exceptional scoring records and the Golden Boot at the World Cup strengthen his individual case, but the absence of recent club silverware at Real Madrid may temper voters’ assessments. The award remains a high-profile benchmark for individual standing in world football, and Mbappé’s pursuit adds another narrative to the season for supporters and media alike.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- The development of Mbappé’s 2024-25 campaign with Real Madrid, particularly how he performs in La Liga and the Champions League, where he has targeted a strong start.
- How trophy outcomes for Real Madrid and performances in major club competitions influence Ballon d’Or voting ahead of the 26 October ceremony.
- Any shifts in bookmakers’ odds as the season progresses and other contenders (notably Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Rodri) continue their campaigns.
KEY FACTS
- Mbappé is 27 years old.
- He scored 42 goals in 44 club games last season.
- He won the World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals and has a record 22 goals at World Cups.
- His highest Ballon d’Or finish is third (2023).
- Ballon d’Or 2024 will be awarded on 26 October.