Kylian Mbappe says this could be his year to win first Ballon d'Or ahead of October gala

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has set his sights on winning his first Ballon d’Or as the October gala approaches.

Mbappe, 27, who netted 42 goals in 44 games for his club last season but couldn’t lead his club to win any titles.

Mbappe’s interview appeared on Ballondor.com, and a clip was posted by the outlet on Instagram with the caption, “I believe I can win the Ballon d’Or this year.”

For Mbappe, the year has turned out to be rewarding, as he bagged the World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals, bringing his career World Cup count to 22.

Although France finished fourth in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mbappe still claimed the Golden Boot with 10 goals.

“I think when you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, people associate you with this award,” Mbappe mused.

“There are many people that speak about me and the Ballon d’Or. Of course I’ve made history in the most important competition. Maybe it’s good year for this but people can vote according to what they think,” he asserted ahead of the big night in London next month.

“I always think I’m the best but everyone has their own opinion.

“May be people think different ways. I don’t think it’s a discussion we need to have.

“Of course this year could be good for me to win the Ballon d’Or. But journalists vote," he added.

Mbappe finished in the Ballon d’Or rankings as third in 2023, when he was signed with the Paris St-Germain (PSG).

This year’s top three front-runners for the Ballon d’Or award are Three Lions captain Harry Kane, who netted 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern Munich last season.

The second favourite is 19-year-old Spanish phenom Lamine Yamal, who helped Spain lift the FIFA World Cup 2026, and French superstar Kylian Mbappe.

The Ballon d’Or buzzing award night is scheduled to take place in London on Monday, October 26, 2026.