Ballon d’Or 2025: very good news for Kylian Mbappé

Kylian Mbappé is rapidly emerging as the frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or 2025, with the Madrid press firmly backing his chances after an electrifying debut season at Real Madrid. The French superstar has stunned football fans and analysts alike with his prolific goal-scoring and unwavering consistency throughout the campaign.

Mbappé’s transition to the Santiago Bernabéu has been nothing short of spectacular. Despite initial skepticism and a few adaptation struggles in the early months, the 26-year-old forward finished the season on an extraordinary note, showcasing the kind of brilliance that has made him a household name in world football.

One of the standout highlights of Mbappé’s season is his triumph as the European Golden Boot winner, awarded for scoring the highest number of league goals across Europe. He netted an impressive 31 goals in La Liga, edging out other top scorers such as Mohamed Salah, who tallied 29 goals in the Premier League, and Viktor Gyökeres, who scored 39 goals in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, a league with a lower UEFA coefficient.

Spanish media, especially in Madrid, have been effusive in their praise. Marca, one of Spain’s leading sports newspapers, ran a headline proclaiming, “Mbappé dresses in gold,” highlighting the striker’s incredible personal achievements despite Real Madrid’s collective disappointments in La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey.

Meanwhile, AS noted that this Golden Boot could merely be the beginning of Mbappé’s accolades. With a total of 43 goals across all competitions this season, he stands just one goal shy of surpassing his personal best of 44 goals set in the 2023/24 season. This record-breaking streak could extend further in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, where Real Madrid has a chance to add silverware to their campaign.

Early in the season, Mbappé faced criticism for underwhelming performances in key matches, especially during the autumn months. Yet, his resilience and determination have been key to his resurgence. He ended the campaign as a relentless force, even breaking records held by club legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Zamorano for most goals in a debut Real Madrid season.

Foot Mercato aptly summarized this turnaround, describing Mbappé’s season as “the end of a strange campaign.” While Real Madrid faltered as a team, Mbappé was among the few players who escaped harsh critique, his individual brilliance standing out as a beacon amid collective struggles.

The legendary Spanish pundit Josep Pedrerol made a bold prediction on May 25, declaring, “Mbappé, Golden Boot winner after a poor season for Real Madrid… mark my words: if Real wins the Club World Cup, Mbappé will win the Ballon d’Or.”

This statement reflects the growing consensus that individual brilliance, combined with a major trophy, could tip the scales in Mbappé’s favor when the Ballon d’Or votes are cast later this year.

Statistically, Mbappé’s influence on Real Madrid’s gameplay is undeniable. His pace, precision, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments have made him indispensable. Beyond raw numbers, his vision and link-up play have also elevated the overall quality of the team’s attacking dynamics.

Yet, the Ballon d’Or race is far from over. Other young stars like Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and seasoned veterans such as Ousmane Dembélé remain in contention. Both have had impactful seasons in their respective leagues and competitions, making the final vote a highly anticipated moment.

Mbappé’s global visibility and marketability further bolster his candidacy. As one of football’s most recognizable faces, his performances captivate audiences worldwide, drawing massive viewership and sponsorship interest, which inevitably plays a subtle role in such prestigious individual awards.

Moreover, the French striker’s consistency at the international level adds weight to his credentials. His leadership and goal-scoring for the national team continue to impress, reinforcing his standing as one of the game’s brightest talents.

Despite Real Madrid’s collective setbacks this season, Mbappé’s personal milestones and continuous growth suggest he is on track to claim his first Ballon d’Or — a trophy that has eluded him but is now within striking distance.

The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with Mbappé positioned at the heart of the narrative. His journey from a promising talent to a world-class icon exemplifies dedication, skill, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.

For Mbappé and his legion of supporters, this potential triumph would not only be a validation of his exceptional talents but also a symbol of a new era in football, where youth and flair combine to challenge the established order.

As the countdown to the Ballon d’Or approaches, all eyes will remain on Mbappé. Can he convert this season’s outstanding personal achievements into football’s most coveted individual honor? The answer lies ahead — and the world will be watching closely.