Mbappe Believes This Year Is a 'Good Year' to Win His First Ballon d'Or

Mbappe believes he has a chance to win the Ballon d'Or for the first time this year. In an interview on Monday, he said he created history in the most important competitions and that perhaps this year is a suitable one, but people can vote according to their own opinions.

World Cup Golden Boot and Historical Goal Totals

His optimism comes from the data of the previous cycle. Mbappe won the World Cup Golden Boot for the second consecutive tournament, scoring 10 goals, the highest single-tournament tally in 56 years. At the same time, his total number of goals in World Cup history reached 22, surpassing Messi. At club level, he scored 42 goals in 44 matches for Real Madrid, although Real Madrid did not win major trophies last season.

"Playing for Real Madrid, People Automatically Associate You with Awards"

Mbappe added that when you play for Real Madrid, the world's best club, people automatically associate you with the Ballon d'Or. He also said he has always considered himself the best candidate, but everyone has the right to keep their own opinion.

This year's Ballon d'Or will be awarded in London on October 26. Last year's men's Ballon d'Or was won by Dembele, when Paris Saint-Germain secured the first Champions League title in the club's history.

Main Rivals and Previous Best Ranking

Other strong candidates mentioned include Harry Kane and Yamal. Kane scored 61 goals in 51 matches for Bayern Munich, while Yamal won the World Cup with Spain and the La Liga title with Barcelona. Mbappe responded by saying he does not like making comparisons because he has done many things others have not, and entering such discussions would turn into an endless debate.

Mbappe's previous best result in the Ballon d'Or voting was third place in 2023. He made the comments before Real Madrid's midweek Champions League opening match at home against Inter Milan.