Zidane Backs Mbappe for Ballon d'Or

France national team coach Zinedine Zidane has expressed his support for Kylian Mbappe, stating that the Real Madrid forward deserved to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or as much as Harry Kane. In an interview with French television program Telefoot, Zidane discussed Mbappe's disappointment after finishing second in the voting. Zidane acknowledged that everyone has their own preference and that Mbappe finished second, but emphasized that the French player certainly deserved the award.

The 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony took place in London on October 26, with Harry Kane becoming the first Englishman to receive the award in 25 years. Kane secured the honor following an exceptional 2025-2026 campaign, scoring 73 goals for club and country across all competitions. He also helped Bayern Munich secure a domestic treble, finishing as the Bundesliga's leading scorer and recording 14 Champions League goals.

Mbappe finished second in the voting, achieving his highest position in the Ballon d'Or rankings. The Real Madrid striker had an impressive individual season, finishing as the leading scorer in both LaLiga and the Champions League. However, his performances were not enough to secure the award ahead of Kane. Barcelona's Lamine Yamal completed the top three in the voting.

Zidane also discussed Mbappe's return to the French national team ahead of the upcoming international break. The France coach expressed confidence that his captain would be pleased to rejoin the squad after an injury interrupted his previous international appearance. Zidane explained that Mbappe had wanted to remain with the team but needed time to recover.

Mbappe is now expected to feature in France's final two UEFA Nations League group-stage matches. France will face Italy in Milan on November 12 before hosting Turkey in Bordeaux on November 15. Zidane's team is seeking to secure first place in their group and advance to the quarter-finals.

Zidane's comments on Mbappe's Ballon d'Or chances reflect the French player's impressive form in recent seasons. Mbappe has consistently performed at a high level, and his second-place finish in the 2026 Ballon d'Or voting was a testament to his hard work and dedication.

The 2026 Ballon d'Or voting result was a significant moment for Kane, who became the first Englishman to win the award in 25 years. The Bayern Munich striker's exceptional campaign earned him widespread recognition, and he will look to continue his impressive form in the coming season.

Key points

• Zidane believes Mbappe deserved 2026 Ballon d'Or as much as Kane.
• Mbappe finished second in 2026 Ballon d'Or voting.
• Kane won 2026 Ballon d'Or with 73 goals across all competitions.