Kylian Mbappe Hopeful About Winning Ballon d'Or Following Record-Breaking Scoring Campaign

Kylian Mbappe has yet to win a major club trophy during his two seasons at Real Madrid, but the France captain believes his individual performances could make 2026 the year he finally claims the Ballon d'Or.

Mbappe has scored 90 goals in 107 appearances for Real Madrid since joining the Spanish giants, including 42 goals in 44 matches last season. Despite those numbers, the club ended the campaign without silverware.

His individual record is already among the most decorated in world football. Mbappe has won eight consecutive league Golden Boots, two World Cup Golden Boots and two Champions League Golden Boots. Yet the Ballon d'Or remains absent from his collection, with third place in 2023 his best finish.

The forward's case was strengthened by his performances at the World Cup. He scored 10 times to claim the Golden Boot and took his career total in the tournament to 22 goals, a record. France, however, finished fourth.

Mbappe believes his association with Real Madrid also helps explain why he continues to feature prominently in Ballon d'Or discussions.

“I think when you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, people associate you with this award.”

The 27-year-old also pointed to his World Cup achievements while acknowledging that the final decision belongs to the voters.

“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.”

His confidence in his own ability has not changed, although Mbappe said he has no interest in debating his standing against other players.

“I always think I'm the best [player in the world] but everyone has their own opinion. 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,” he added. 

The competition remains strong. Harry Kane is the bookmakers' favourite after scoring a club-record 61 goals in 51 matches for Bayern Munich, while Lamine Yamal is also highly rated following La Liga and World Cup success with Barcelona and Spain. Rodri is another leading contender.

The award will be presented on October 26. For Kylian Mbappe, hopeful to win Ballon d'OR, his biggest challenge is not producing individual numbers but convincing voters that those performances outweigh the absence of major team honours at Real Madrid.

Mbappe also remains focused on changing that situation with his club. Asked about Madrid's recent lack of trophies, he said: “My experience with Real Madrid says I shouldn't think too long-term because a lot can change. I want to think how I can be ready, to help my team to win the game and to start the Champions League in a good way.”

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