France World Cup winner, Christophe Dugarry, has criticised Kylian Mbappe after the Real Madrid forward suggested that 2026 could be the year he finally wins the Ballon d’Or.
Mbappe, who captained France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, spoke about his chances of claiming the prestigious individual award ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League opener against Inter Milan.
The 27-year-old believes playing for Real Madrid naturally puts him in contention for the prize, while his performances at the World Cup have further strengthened his case.
“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 a good year for this, but people can vote according to what they think.
“I always think I’m the best [player in the world], but everyone has their own opinion.
“Maybe 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.”
However, Dugarry was unimpressed by the comments and accused the France captain of publicly seeking individual recognition.
“To publicly ask for an individual award like that, I find it childish and pathetic,” Dugarry said.
“There’s nothing great about asking for it, especially as captain of your national team.”
Mbappe has previously come close to winning the award, finishing third in 2023 behind Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi, who claimed the honour for an eighth time.
His France teammate Ousmane Dembele won the 2025 Ballon d’Or after an outstanding campaign, finishing ahead of Lamine Yamal and Vitinha in the voting.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London.
Mbappe is among the leading contenders following his performances for Real Madrid and France.
England captain Harry Kane and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal are also regarded as strong candidates for the award.
Kane enjoyed a prolific 2025/26 campaign with Bayern Munich, while Yamal played a key role in Spain’s World Cup triumph.
