Me and Mbappé are the best players.. and everyone who watches the matches knows that
The battle for the 2026 Ballon d’Or has arrived more exciting than ever, and the atmosphere is heating up early. Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé are already at the centre of it.
Yamal spoke on El Mundo de Valdano, broadcast via Movistar, in an interview set to be published next Friday. This time the Barcelona star was perhaps clearer than ever about who he thinks should win the Ballon d’Or.
Sport newspaper published the remarks. “Who would I give the Ballon d’Or to?” Yamal said. “I honestly believe there are perhaps only two players who are the best in the world, but I deserve it this year.”
He went further: “For me, Kylian Mbappé and I are the best two players, and anyone who watches the matches knows that.”
Mbappé had his say a few days earlier. “I have always believed that the Ballon d’Or should reward a different player,” he said. “Of course there is the collective side, which is important, because football is a team sport. But it is an individual award.”
On his own season, the Frenchman was more decisive: “I think this year I have delivered different things. That is why I believe I can win the Ballon d’Or.”
Yamal comes armed with a World Cup won with Spain and a La Liga title with Barcelona. Mbappé exploded in front of goal at the same World Cup and became its all-time top scorer.
You can discuss the topics and news in greater depth on the Kooora forums