Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has indicated that Kylian Mbappe is his leading candidate to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or after the France international scored 42 goals during his first season with the Spanish club.
Mbappe has been named on the 30-player shortlist for October’s prestigious individual award. His 2025/26 campaign produced a prolific return in front of goal, although he has not yet collected a LaLiga, Copa del Rey or UEFA Champions League winners’ medal since joining Real Madrid from Paris St-Germain in 2024.
The 27-year-old was also unable to end the season with an international title. France were beaten by eventual champions Spain in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite those setbacks, Mourinho believes Mbappe should be considered the strongest contender for the Ballon d’Or. The Real Madrid boss placed his forward ahead of Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal when discussing the leading candidates.
Mourinho said: “I put Kylian Mbappe alongside the top players I’ve managed. I don’t like to make comparisons, but he’s an incredible player.
“For me, the best player in the world can also be one without trophies.”
Mbappe’s case is therefore being based primarily on his individual contribution rather than the number of major honours won by his club or country. His 42 goals for Real Madrid in the 2025/26 season form the central part of Mourinho’s argument, even though the Spanish side did not provide him with a league, domestic-cup or European title during that campaign.
The Ballon d’Or shortlist puts Mbappe among the 30 players still in contention for the award, with the winner due to be announced in October. Mourinho’s comments represent a clear expression of support from the forward’s new club manager, who believes individual excellence should not be dismissed simply because it has not been accompanied by silverware.
Mbappe moved to Real Madrid from Paris St-Germain in 2024 and has since continued to attract attention at both club and international level. His first season in Madrid included a substantial goalscoring contribution, but the absence of major trophies remains a notable part of his record since the transfer.
France’s defeat by Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals was another disappointment for Mbappe, coming during a summer in which Spain ultimately lifted the trophy. Nevertheless, Mourinho maintains that the forward’s performances make him the leading candidate for football’s most prominent individual prize.