Kylian Mbappé, the Real Madrid forward, is considered one of the favorites for the 2026 Ballon d'Or. During the 2025/26 season, he scored 58 goals and provided 13 assists in 60 matches, finishing as the top scorer in La Liga and the Champions League. Despite his impressive individual statistics, there is a credible argument that he should not win the award solely based on his numbers.
Football is a team sport, and the Ballon d'Or has historically taken into account a player's contribution to their team's success. Mbappé's lack of major trophies during the 2025/26 season is a significant drawback in his bid for the award. In contrast, his rivals, such as Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal, have achieved team success, which strengthens their cases for the Ballon d'Or.
Harry Kane, the Bayern Munich striker, scored 61 goals in 51 appearances and led his team to the Bundesliga title. Additionally, he scored six goals for England at the World Cup, further solidifying his credentials. Kane's combination of individual excellence and team success makes his case for the Ballon d'Or difficult to dismiss.
Lamine Yamal, the Barcelona teenager, registered 25 goals and 20 assists in 57 matches, contributing to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup victories. He was also a key figure in Spain's World Cup-winning campaign, adding an international honor that neither Mbappé nor Kane can claim. Yamal's achievements demonstrate that he has made a significant impact at both the club and international levels.
The 2026 Ballon d'Or debate raises questions about what the award should reward. If it is solely based on individual statistics, Mbappé is the front-runner. However, if the panel considers the full body of a player's season, including team honors, then Kane and Yamal have legitimate claims to stand ahead of him.
Lionel Messi is also in the running for the Ballon d'Or, with some of his teammates, Cristian Romero and Alexis Mac Allister, backing him for the award. They pointed to his impact at the 2022 World Cup as a key reason he deserves the award. Messi is bidding for a record ninth Ballon d'Or, and his case is considered strong by some.
Ultimately, the decision on who wins the 2026 Ballon d'Or will depend on the criteria used by the panel. Mbappé's impressive individual statistics make him a strong contender, but his lack of team trophies is a significant disadvantage. The award will be presented on October 26, and it remains to be seen who will emerge as the winner.
Key points
- Mbappé's lack of major trophies is a significant drawback in his bid for the 2026 Ballon d'Or.
- Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal have achieved team success, which strengthens their cases for the Ballon d'Or.
- The 2026 Ballon d'Or debate raises questions about what the award should reward: individual statistics or team success.
