Kylian Mbappe says Ballon d’Or ‘must return’ to Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappe says he believes he is ready to win the Ballon d’Or, but insists the greater priority is seeing the award return to Real Madrid and the club’s supporters at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Real Madrid forward is among the 30 players shortlisted for this year’s prize, which will be presented at a ceremony on 26 October.

Mbappe was speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, which published excerpts from the interview ahead of the full conversation being released on Thursday evening.

“I think this is the right year to win it,” Mbappe said. “The best evidence of that is my feet. Whatever I say, the most important thing for me is that the Ballon d’Or returns to Real Madrid.

“It must return to the Bernabeu and to the people of Madrid, to bring joy back to all of their hearts. They deserve it more than anyone else.”

Mbappe was also asked about Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal, one of his main rivals for the prestigious individual award.

“I think he is a very talented player and I have the feeling he will have a great career,” Mbappe said. “I wish him all the best.”

The interview covers a range of subjects beyond the Ballon d’Or, including Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Jose Mourinho, Mbappe’s move to the Spanish club and his relationships with Vinicius and Jude Bellingham.

Mbappe’s latest comments come days after he provoked debate with remarks about fellow France international Ousmane Dembele, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain and won the Ballon d’Or last year.

“People have always seen him as a talented player, while I have always been considered the chosen player,” Mbappe said.

He was referring to the contrasting paths the two players had taken, with Mbappe reaching the top at a young age while Dembele’s career had been affected by injuries.

Dembele responded after Paris Saint-Germain’s victory over Brest in comments that appeared to address his France team-mate directly.

“That’s how I have always been, at the back of the class and working hard,” Dembele said. “Throughout my career I have never said a word; I have just worked hard.”

He added: “I was never the chosen player. I worked hard and was rewarded in a great year with Paris. This year we will see. I am following it without pressure.”