Mbappe says Ballon d’Or defeat would be ‘disappointing’ after claiming no-one surpassed him

Kylian Mbappe says winning the Ballon d’Or is an ambition, but insists the award is not an obsession as he reflects on a season he believes was the best of his career.

The Real Madrid striker told French radio station RFI that the prize is a natural target for players and contenders, while making clear he does not view it as something that dominates his thinking.

“The Ballon d’Or is a goal for any player and any competitor, but is it an obsession? No, I don’t think so,” Mbappe said.

“I had a good year. It was a great season for me individually.”

Mbappe said he was enjoying the open competition for the award and felt the uncertainty made the contest more engaging for supporters.

“It is good to see that, and it is good to be part of it,” he added. “I think it also makes the fans happy.”

The France international was also asked about comments that caused controversy in France, in which he suggested he had been the leading player over the previous season.

“Yes, I said that I have always been the best player, and that there was no-one better than me last season,” Mbappe said.

He acknowledged the consequences if he does not win the trophy, adding: “It would be disappointing if I did not win it.”

France are preparing to begin a new era under Zinedine Zidane, who has taken charge of the national team. Mbappe said he has yet to meet his new manager.

He paid tribute to Didier Deschamps, who previously led France, and praised the lasting impact of his time in charge.

“What Deschamps did with the French national team was incredible,” Mbappe said. “He made history and truly restored the French team to the position it deserves.”

Mbappe also spoke positively about the prospect of working with Zidane and learning what the former France captain expects from the squad.

“There is nothing better than seeing him there and actually speaking to him about what he wants, what he expects from us as a team, and what he expects from me as a player,” he said.

The Real Madrid forward was then asked about his Algerian and Cameroonian heritage. Mbappe said those roots remained an important part of his identity and that he valued the support he received across Africa.

“These are my origins, these are my roots,” he said. “I feel the love of the people, and that is very important and extremely encouraging – to feel the support of an entire continent.”

He concluded by expressing his wish to see African football continue to progress and challenge the world’s leading national teams.

“I want to see African football continue to develop and compete with the biggest national teams,” Mbappe said.