Kylian Mbappe criticised in Madrid Ballon d’Or debate

Kylian Mbappe’s push for the 2026 Ballon d’Or has drawn sharp criticism from within the Madrid media, where his public campaign is being viewed with growing scepticism.

The Real Madrid forward has spoken frequently about his individual case as voting approaches, including his connection to Cameroon and the potential significance of an African-linked winner.

However, AS columnist Rafa Cabeleira has challenged that argument, noting that Mbappe and rival Lamine Yamal were both born in Europe and have African family roots. He described that aspect of the debate as a “draw.”

Cabeleira’s wider criticism centres on Mbappe’s season. While recognising that the France captain has scored more goals than any other player, including in major competitions, the columnist argued that those goals did not deliver a significant trophy for either club or country.

The debate reflects a familiar Ballon d’Or divide: should individual excellence outweigh collective achievements? Mbappe has defended the importance of personal performances, while Yamal has emphasised the trophies he won with Barcelona and Spain.

With the vote nearing its conclusion, Mbappe’s highly visible campaign is clearly stirring debate, not only in France, but also in the Spanish capital.