Javier Tebas, the outspoken president of Spain’s top football division, LaLiga, has made a bold prediction regarding the future of the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.
Tebas confidently stated that Kylian Mbappé, the French football sensation of Cameroonian and Algerian descent, is set to claim the coveted individual honor in the near future.
“Mbappe will be the next winner,” said Tebas in an interview with AS.
This proclamation comes on the heels of Manchester City’s midfield maestro Rodri securing the 2024 Ballon d’Or, an accolade that recognizes the world’s best footballer over the past year.
Rodri’s triumph marked a milestone as he became the first player from Manchester City to receive this esteemed award.
Mbappé has been making waves in the football world since his transfer to Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old forward has been in scintillating form, notching an impressive 27 goals and providing 4 assists in 38 appearances across all competitions this season.
His impact has extended beyond domestic competitions, with a memorable hat-trick against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League further cementing his status as one of the game’s elite performers.
Tebas’s endorsement of Mbappé for future Ballon d’Or success is not without merit.
The French international recently surpassed the milestone of 500 career goal involvements for club and country, achieving this feat at a younger age than football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The La Liga president’s prediction also aligns with his previous defense of Mbappé during a period of criticism from Spanish media.
Tebas has consistently expressed confidence in Mbappé’s abilities and potential to become a leading figure in Spanish football.