Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has stated that this year could be a strong contender for him to win his first Ballon d'Or.
Mbappe, 27, scored 42 goals in 44 matches for his previous club last season, though they did not secure any titles. He also earned the World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals, setting a new record with 22 career goals in World Cups, despite France finishing fourth in the tournament.
"I think when you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, people associate you with this award," Mbappe said. "There are many people that speak about me and the Ballon d'Or. 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 added that while he believes he is the best player in the world, he acknowledges that "everyone has their own opinion" and "people can vote according to what they think." Mbappe previously finished third in the Ballon d'Or rankings in 2023, when he was a player for Paris Saint-Germain. The award ceremony is scheduled for October 26.
Currently, bookmakers are favoring other players for the award. England captain Harry Kane is considered a strong favorite after scoring a club-record 61 goals in 51 games for Bayern Munich last season and contributing six goals at the World Cup. Second favorite is Lamine Yamal, who achieved La Liga success with Barcelona and won the World Cup with Spain, followed by his Barcelona and Spanish teammate Rodri.