2026 Ballon d'Or: Kylian Mbappé determined to claim the prize

Kylian Mbappé has always been clear about his ambitions. The French international once again affirmed his bid for the 2026 Ballon d'Or following Real Madrid's 2-1 Champions League victory over Inter on Tuesday.

Last night, Kylian Mbappé scored against Inter Milan. However, speaking to CBS Sports, the former Paris Saint-Germain forward emphasized that winning a European title with the Madrid club ranks higher than the individual award.

"Yes, I’ve talked about the Ballon d’Or, but the Champions League is even more important because I’m playing for the club of my dreams. It’s really important for me to win the Champions League here. I want it more than anything. But, of course, there’s also the Ballon d’Or this year. I think it’s a great opportunity. It’s a good year for me," the Merengue striker insisted. We will find out the answer on October 26.

Federico Valverde believes in it too

Speaking to Movistar, Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde revealed his hopes regarding the award. "For one of our own to win it. Always. I’m happy to be able to contribute to that," the Uruguayan midfielder said.

Mbappé appears to be the best-positioned Real Madrid player. However, the French forward remains an outsider facing competition that seems better equipped, with no single clear frontrunner emerging from the pack.

Also read : 2026 Ballon d'Or nominees: France Football explains the omissions of Désiré Doué and Barcola

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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