“I always think I’m the best,” Mbappé says of Ballon d’Or hopes

Kylian Mbappé believes 2026 could be the year he wins the Ballon d’Or, but he acknowledged that the award will ultimately be decided by journalists.

“

There are many people talking about me and the Ballon d’Or. Of course, I have written my name into the history books on the biggest stage. Maybe this is a good year for me in that regard, but people vote according to their own opinions.

The France captain was speaking at a news conference before Real Madrid’s Champions League match against Inter. He said many people had been discussing him and the prize, while pointing to his record at the highest level.

Mbappé scored 10 goals at the World Cup during the summer and now has 22 World Cup goals, making him the tournament’s all-time leading scorer. France lost to world champions Spain in the semifinals, and Real Madrid failed to win a trophy last season. Mbappé nonetheless scored 43 goals and provided six assists in 47 appearances for the club.

“

I always think I’m the best, but everyone has their own opinion. Maybe some people see it differently. I don’t think this is a discussion we need to have.

“I always think I’m the best, but everyone has their own opinion,” Mbappé said. “Of course, this could be a good year for me to win the Ballon d’Or. But the journalists vote.” The award will be presented on October 26.

“

Of course, this could be a good year for me to win the Ballon d’Or. But the journalists vote.