Kylian Mbappé eyes Ballon d'Or nomination following World Cup success

Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé identifies 2026 as a potential year to win the Ballon d'Or. The 27-year-old expressed confidence in his candidacy during a press conference on Monday, citing his historic performance at the recent World Cup. Mbappé finished the international tournament as the all-time top scorer with 22 goals, while also becoming the first player to finish as the competition’s leading scorer in two separate editions. Despite a lack of club-level trophies during the 2025-26 season, he maintained a productive scoring record of 42 goals in 44 matches across all competitions. Voters will finalize their choice for the prestigious award ahead of the ceremony scheduled for October 26. As a forward for Real Madrid, he remains a prominent candidate in a competitive field of nominees seeking to succeed Ousmane Dembélé.

• 12:42 PMBBC Sport — This could be year I win Ballon d'Or, says Mbappe
• 12:05 PMYahoo Sports — Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé feels 2026 could be a ‘good year’ for him to win the Ballon d’Or