Kenya Sport

Bacary Sagna Places Kylian Mbappe Among Top Three Players, Picks Kvaratskhelia for 2026 Ballon d’Or

Ex-France defender Bacary Sagna told GOAL that Kylian Mbappe ranks only as one of the top three players worldwide right now. Despite his high profile at Real Madrid and his strong World Cup performance, Sagna does not expect Mbappe to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Sagna also excluded other stars like Harry Kane from contention when naming his favorite for the Golden Ball.

2026 Ballon d’Or Contenders: Kane and Rodri in the Frame

Usually, the player who lifts a major global trophy in a World Cup year gets the Ballon d’Or nod. Spain’s recent triumph in North America puts their stars in the spotlight. Rodri, last year's Ballon d’Or winner, and his new Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal are aiming for the prize.

Kane scored an impressive 61 goals last season for Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich but missed out on Champions League glory in 2026. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain secured back-to-back Champions League titles, giving players like Ousmane Dembele or other PSG talents a shot at the award.

Sagna’s Pick: Kvaratskhelia Over Mbappe and Kane

“For me, the best right now is in the top three. Mbappe had a fantastic year and is one of the best. But being a striker means more chances to score, so more attention from fans,” said Sagna.“I believe Khvicha Kvaratskhelia deserves the Ballon d’Or. He’s been phenomenal as a winger with a hugely impactful season. Beyond winning the Champions League, I think players would agree that Kvara was the most important player last season.”“Kylian shone at the World Cup, scoring many goals. I love football and enjoy seeing him perform at this level. He might be the best player globally, but the question is how much impact did you have for your team last season?”

Mbappe’s Ballon d’Or Chances Under Scrutiny

Despite personal achievements like two La Liga Golden Boots and scoring 90 goals in 106 appearances for Real Madrid, the club hasn’t claimed a major trophy in two seasons. This absence of team success has clouded Mbappe’s chances.

Former France international Louis Saha recently told GOAL: “It’s tough because Mbappe wants those trophies. Winning the Champions League boosts your Ballon d’Or chances. He understands that’s how to get noticed by the judges.”

“There’s pressure since the club hasn't reached finals after he joined. It raises questions personally and spiritually, almost like a bad luck streak he wants to break.”

“He deserves to succeed given his potential. People criticize his style, but great players want everything. If things don’t go well, critics are quick to judge. Even Cristiano Ronaldo would have faced similar criticism without his trophies.”

Mbappe’s Record-Breaking Run Continues

Mbappe made history at the 2026 World Cup as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer. He also holds the same record with the French national team and for Ligue 1 giants PSG.

This season, he already netted a hat-trick against Real Sociedad. As Jose Mourinho works to steer Real Madrid back to winning ways, Mbappe’s stellar performances keep him in the conversation for future Ballon d’Or honors.

  • Kylian Mbappe: 90 goals in 106 appearances for Real Madrid
  • Harry Kane: 61 goals for Bayern Munich last season
  • Rodri: 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, now at Barcelona
  • Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Key player in Champions League-winning campaign
  • Paris Saint-Germain: Back-to-back Champions League winners in 2026

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