Kylian Mbappe says he would vote for himself to win the Ballon d’Or

Kylian Mbappe has made a strong defence of his Ballon d’Or chances, insisting he would vote for himself to win the prestigious individual award.

The Real Madrid forward said he believes he is capable of claiming the prize this year and remains fully committed to that ambition. His comments appeared in an extract from an interview with France Football, with the full discussion due to be broadcast in the coming period.

Speaking several hours before the 30-man shortlist was announced, Mbappe said, according to Marca: “I have the feeling that I am capable of winning it this year, so I have not moved away from that objective.”

The France international also argued that the Ballon d’Or should be judged primarily on individual performances, in response to criticism that he did not win major team honours during the previous season.

“It is an individual award, and what the player has produced individually is taken into consideration,” he said.

“People say that I have not won trophies, but I have never seen a Ballon d’Or unanimously awarded to a player who achieved everything every time. I do not know whether there has ever been a player who won it with 100% of the votes, which means there is always someone who feels that the winner did not deserve it.”

Mbappe believes his performances at the World Cup provide one of the strongest arguments in his favour. He finished the tournament as its leading scorer and won the Golden Boot, an achievement he clearly considers central to his case.

“To become the all-time leading scorer at the World Cup and surpass all the great sporting legends throughout history in the biggest competition there is, that attracts attention and is a global event,” Mbappe said.

“To finish major competitions as the top scorer, where the best players in the world take part, is important. History must always be rewarded.”

Asked who he would select in the vote, Mbappe gave a direct answer: “Who would I vote for? Myself.”

He added: “But I understand those who vote differently. We are not in a dictatorship of thought. When I look at the arguments, and when I look at the competition, I tell myself that winning the award would not be a robbery.”

The comments come at a significant moment in the Ballon d’Or race. France Football is due to announce the 30 nominees for the 70th edition of the award the following day, with no clear favourite emerging from the season.

The assessment period runs until 19 July, the date on which Spain defeated Argentina in the World Cup final. Spain midfielder Rodri was named the tournament’s best player and has emerged as one of Mbappe’s leading rivals for the award.

However, Mbappe’s hopes face an obvious obstacle because of his lack of major silverware during the campaign.

Real Madrid did not finish the season with any major trophies, while France also failed to win the World Cup. As a result, Mbappe’s outstanding individual numbers were not accompanied by a significant team title.

Team success has frequently played an important role in the Ballon d’Or voting in recent years. Mbappe’s prolific scoring record will therefore be weighed against the importance of collective honours when voters decide who should receive the prize.