Mbappe determined to stay true to himself in Ballon d’Or race

Kylian Mbappe says he will not change his personality as he targets a first Ballon d’Or at the awards ceremony in London.

The Real Madrid forward arrived at the event as one of the leading contenders after finishing as top scorer in the Champions League, La Liga and the World Cup.

Mbappe is competing for the award with Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane.

Speaking to L’Equipe TV at the London Palladium, Mbappe acknowledged the attention surrounding his candidacy.

“I know I am the talk of the town,” he said, according to Foot Mercato. “You know me, it does not bother me. I know I cannot please everyone.”

The France international added that he had no intention of allowing the scrutiny to alter him.

“I do not want to change and become someone else,” he said. “It is very difficult to be someone else.”

Mbappe also revealed that he had not prepared a speech in case he won the prize.

“No, that is unlucky,” he said. “You just have to enjoy the moment and see how the evening unfolds.”