TOPSHOT - France’s forward #10 Kylian Mbappe (R) reacts past Spain’s forward #19 Lamine Yamal during the 2026 World Cup football tournament semi-final match between France and Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on July 14, 2026. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)
Kylian Mbappe has wished Lamine Yamal well in the race for the Ballon d’Or but claims the trophy deserves to return to the Spanish capital.
The two players are among the favorites to be named the best player in the world next month, and Mbappe has had a few kind words for his rival.
“I think he’s a very talented player and I have a feeling he’s going to have a great career. I wish him all the best,” he told AS.
Mbappe then went on to put his own case forward once again.
“My opinion is that this is a good year to win it,” he added. “My best advocate is my own feet. No matter how much I talk, the most important thing for me is that the Ballon d’Or returns to Real Madrid.
“It must return to the Bernabéu, to the Madrid fans, to bring joy back to all these people. They deserve it more than anyone.”
After initially saying he wouldn’t beg for the award, Yamal has since insisted he “deserves” to beat Mbappe to top spot after winning La Liga with Barcelona and the World Cup with Spain.