Real Madrid central defender Ibrahima Konate believes his team-mate Kylian Mbappe should win this year’s Ballon d’Or, saying: “I would give the Ballon d’Or to Mbappe.”
The France forward is among the leading contenders for the prestigious individual award after being included in the 30-player shortlist announced on Tuesday.
Mbappe strengthened his case by scoring for Real Madrid in their 2-1 victory over Inter in the opening round of the Champions League league phase. His goal was his first against the Italian club and helped Real Madrid begin their campaign with a win.
Konate has identified Mbappe as his preferred choice for the prize, placing his team-mate ahead of the other 29 players nominated. The Ballon d’Or is awarded to the player judged to have produced the strongest individual performances during the relevant period.
The announcement of the shortlist has intensified the debate over this year’s leading candidate. Mbappe is regarded as one of the main favourites, and his contribution against Inter has added to the attention surrounding his candidature.
Real Madrid’s 2-1 success came in the first match of the league phase, with Mbappe finding the net as his side secured three points. The result and the forward’s goal have provided an early highlight in the competition.
The identity of the Ballon d’Or winner will be revealed on 26 October. Until then, Mbappe remains among the principal contenders, while Konate has made clear that he would hand the award to his Real Madrid team-mate.
The 30-name shortlist announced on Tuesday represents the field from which the winner will be selected. Mbappe’s nomination follows his involvement in Real Madrid’s opening Champions League fixture, where he scored in the victory against Inter.
For Konate, that contribution is part of the reason Mbappe deserves recognition as the year’s outstanding player. His view provides a clear endorsement from within the Real Madrid squad, with the final decision due to be announced on 26 October.
The award remains undecided until the ceremony, but Mbappe’s place among the favourites has already been established. His goal against Inter has further focused attention on his claim, while Konate has publicly stated that the Ballon d’Or would be his choice for the France international.