Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé has expressed his desire to see the Ballon d’Or return to the Spanish club, saying Madridistas deserve another reason to celebrate.
The France international made the remarks in an interview with Diario AS on Thursday, where he spoke about his ambition to see the prestigious individual prize back at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“I really want the Ballon d’Or to return to Real Madrid,” Mbappé said. “It needs to come back to the Bernabéu, to the Madridistas, to return for all those people and give them something to be excited about. They deserve it more than anyone.”
Mbappé also discussed his own prospects of winning the award, maintaining that his performances should ultimately determine his chances rather than his comments.
“In my opinion, this is a good year to win it,” he said. “My feet are my best advocates, more so than anything I might say!”
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The forward’s comments highlight his ambition to cement his place among football’s leading players following his move to Real Madrid and challenge for one of the sport’s most coveted individual honours.
Mbappé also praised Barcelona’s teenage star Lamine Yamal, describing the youngster as a highly gifted player and backing him to enjoy a successful career.
“Lamine Yamal is a very talented player, and I have a feeling he’s going to have a great career,” Mbappé said. “I wish him all the best.”
Despite the long-standing rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Mbappé acknowledged Yamal’s talent and his increasing prominence in the game.
The French forward remains focused on helping Real Madrid compete for major honours while seeking to put himself in contention for the Ballon d’Or.