Steve McManaman backs Kylian Mbappe over Lamine Yamal in Ballon d’Or race

Former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Steve McManaman has backed Kylian Mbappe to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, highlighting the French forward’s ability to deliver decisive performances in football’s biggest matches.

Speaking to 365Scores in an interview reported by Spanish newspaper SPORT, McManaman was asked to choose between Mbappé and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal ahead of Sunday’s El Clásico at Camp Nou.

“I would choose Kylian Mbappé. He is a player who can make the difference and score goals in the most important matches, and he has enough experience to help him handle the pressure,” McManaman said.

The former England international believes Mbappé’s experience and ability to influence high-pressure encounters give him an advantage in the closely contested race for football’s most prestigious individual award.

McManaman favours Mbappé’s match-winning qualities

Mbappé has enjoyed an outstanding individual campaign, establishing himself as one of the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or after producing impressive goalscoring numbers for Real Madrid and France.

His supporters point to his consistency, decisive contributions and performances on the international stage as reasons why he deserves recognition.

Yamal, meanwhile, has emerged as a serious challenger following another impressive season with Barcelona and Spain. The 19-year-old winger has attracted widespread praise for his creativity, dribbling ability and influence in attacking areas.

However, McManaman believes Mbappé’s proven ability to deliver when the stakes are highest makes him the stronger candidate.

El Clásico adds intrigue to Ballon d’Or debate

The debate comes at an intriguing moment, with Barcelona preparing to host Real Madrid in El Clásico on Sunday, just one day before the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on October 26.

Both players will be under scrutiny as they prepare for one of Spanish football’s biggest fixtures, although the award recognises performances from the previous season rather than their current campaign.

McManaman’s endorsement adds another prominent voice to the discussion, which has largely centred on the balance between individual brilliance and team achievements.

While Yamal’s supporters emphasise his contribution to Barcelona’s and Spain’s successes, Mbappé’s case rests heavily on his extraordinary goalscoring record.

With the ceremony approaching, the final decision remains with the international panel of voters. For McManaman, however, Mbappé’s ability to decide the biggest matches makes the Real Madrid forward his preferred choice.