MADRID, September 7, 2026: Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe believes this could be the year he finally wins the Ballon d’Or, after another prolific individual season despite his club failing to secure a major trophy.
The 27-year-old French star scored 42 goals in 44 appearances for Real Madrid last season but ended the campaign without a club trophy.
Mbappe also claimed the World Cup Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals at the tournament, taking his career World Cup tally to a record 22 goals. France, however, finished fourth.
Mbappe acknowledged that playing for Real Madrid naturally puts him among the leading contenders for football’s most prestigious individual award.
“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 his performances at the World Cup could strengthen his case for the award.
“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,” he said.
Mbappe also maintained his confidence in his own ability while recognising that the final decision rests with journalists.
“I always think I’m the best [player in the world] but everyone has their own opinion,” he said.
“Of course this year could be good for me to win the Ballon d’Or. But journalists vote.”
Mbappe’s highest Ballon d’Or finish
The French forward has previously come close to winning the award. His best finish came in 2023, when he ranked third while playing for Paris Saint-Germain.
However, bookmakers currently have several players ahead of him in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, which is scheduled to be awarded on October 26.
England captain Harry Kane is among the leading favourites after scoring a club-record 61 goals in 51 matches for Bayern Munich last season as the German club won the domestic double.
Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is also among the leading contenders after success with Barcelona and Spain, while his club and international teammate Rodri is another highly rated candidate.
Mbappe also addressed the success of his former club PSG since his departure for Real Madrid.
The Frenchman began his professional career at Monaco before establishing himself as PSG’s all-time leading scorer, with 256 goals in 308 appearances.
He has since scored 90 goals in 107 matches for Real Madrid but has yet to win a major trophy during his two years at the Santiago Bernabeu.
PSG, meanwhile, have won the Champions League in both seasons since Mbappe left, despite having never previously lifted the trophy.
Asked about his former club’s success without him, Mbappe said he could not change what had happened.
“I can’t change it,” he said.
“The truth is that I really don’t care. I know how to analyse football, I know why.”
Mbappe has enjoyed remarkable individual success throughout his career.
He has won eight consecutive league Golden Boots, including six in Ligue 1 and two in La Liga. He has also won two World Cup Golden Boots and two Champions League Golden Boots.
The French forward helped France win the 2018 World Cup, but the Champions League remains one of the major trophies missing from his club career.
Despite Real Madrid’s recent lack of silverware, Mbappe said he was focused on the immediate future rather than looking too far ahead.
“My experience with Real Madrid says I shouldn’t think too long-term because a lot can change,” he said.
“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.”
With another season at Real Madrid underway, Mbappe will now look to turn his impressive individual numbers into team success — while hoping his performances are enough to finally secure the Ballon d’Or.
