Ibrahima Konate reveals Kylian Mbappe’s reaction after Ballon d’Or disappointment

Kylian Mbappe has quickly moved on from missing out on the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with Real Madrid teammate Ibrahima Konate revealing that the French captain returned to training with a positive attitude.

Mbappe finished second behind Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane in the voting, missing out on his first career triumph despite an impressive individual campaign.

Speaking at France’s training camp in Clairefontaine on Monday, Konate praised the forward’s mentality and insisted the disappointment had not affected his commitment.

“He’s in a very good frame of mind; you can see that from his recent matches, he’s been decisive. He’s absolutely vital for us in Madrid,” Konate said.

The French defender acknowledged that missing out on football’s most prestigious individual award was difficult for a competitor like Mbappe.

“He’s a competitor, so of course not winning the Ballon d’Or when he thoroughly deserved it is tough, but the very next day he was giving it his all in training,” he added.

Konate also expressed hope that the 27-year-old would eventually claim the honour.

Zinedine Zidane has similarly backed Mbappe, believing he deserved the award as much as Kane.

The France captain will now turn his attention to upcoming Nations League fixtures against Italy and Turkey.