Mbappe on Ballon d’Or: ‘If we’re talking about Lamine Yamal and Dembele, I’d choose Ousmane’

In a season filled with stellar individual performances and rising young stars, Real Madrid’s talisman Kylian Mbappe has weighed in on the heated Ballon d’Or debate—and his words are already making waves across Europe. When asked to share his thoughts on who deserves football’s most prestigious individual award, Mbappe’s response was clear and unflinching: Ousmane Dembele.

“I would give the Ballon d’Or to Ousmane Dembele,” the Frenchman stated without hesitation. “Would I vote for Dembele? Yes.”

Mbappe, often touted as a future multiple-time Ballon d’Or winner himself, didn’t mince words when further pressed on his decision. “Do I really need to explain? If we’re talking about Yamal and Dembele, I’d choose Dembele,” he concluded, with what seemed like a mix of conviction and admiration.

The Paris-born forward, who now dons the iconic white of Real Madrid, didn’t delve into specific statistics or accomplishments during the conversation, but the implications were loud and clear. His support for Dembele wasn’t just casual praise—it was a resounding endorsement.

It’s worth noting that both Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembele have had phenomenal seasons. Yamal, the teenage prodigy from Barcelona, dazzled fans and critics alike with his maturity, pace, and technical brilliance far beyond his years. At only 17, the winger has become a regular for both club and country, helping drive Spain to the Nations League final with moments of brilliance.

On the other hand, Dembele has undergone something of a renaissance this season. After years of struggling with injuries and inconsistencies, the winger has finally shown the football world the heights he is capable of reaching. His electric performances for PSG, combined with his Champions League heroics and title-winning campaign, have made him a standout figure in European football once again.

Mbappe’s comment not only places Dembele in the Ballon d’Or spotlight but also throws shade—however unintentionally—on Yamal’s chances. While he didn’t directly dismiss the young Spaniard’s talents, the comparison suggests Mbappe sees Dembele’s season as more impactful and decisive.

This statement has sparked debates among fans and pundits. On social media, reactions have been swift and passionate. Barcelona supporters quickly came to Yamal’s defense, arguing that the teenager has redefined expectations for a player his age and that his consistency in big matches cannot be overlooked.

Others believe Mbappe is simply showing loyalty and respect to his compatriot, someone he’s played alongside in the national team setup. Some even suggested that Dembele’s overall experience and influence on matches are what tipped the scales for Mbappe.

“I think it’s more of a brotherhood thing,” wrote one user on Barcelona Live. “Dembele has been there for years. Mbappe knows what he’s gone through. But Yamal? He’s just starting, and he’s already changing games.”

From a tactical standpoint, Dembele has shown incredible versatility this season. Deployed on both wings and even centrally at times, he has tormented defenses across Europe. His dribbling, vision, and improved decision-making have silenced many of his long-time critics. Add to that his contributions in PSG’s run to the Champions League final, and it’s no surprise he’s in the Ballon d’Or conversation.

Meanwhile, Yamal’s achievements are equally impressive. At just 17, he is not only starting for FC Barcelona but also playing key roles in decisive matches for Spain. His precocious maturity, combined with a flair for big moments, has led many to call him the future of Spanish football.

Fabian Ruiz, another PSG star and Yamal’s teammate in the national setup, recently offered a diplomatic response when asked about the Ballon d’Or race. “I’d be happy for whoever wins it, whether it’s Barcelona’s Yamal or PSG’s Dembele. They both deserve it after an incredible season,” he said ahead of Spain’s Nations League final clash against Portugal.

His comment struck a contrast to Mbappe’s more decisive stance. Whereas Ruiz chose neutrality, perhaps to avoid controversy, Mbappe’s straightforward choice has placed Dembele at the center of the Ballon d’Or narrative.

The situation becomes even more intriguing when you consider that Dembele and Yamal could face off in the Nations League final—one last high-stakes match that could sway the minds of Ballon d’Or voters. A standout performance from either could be the final argument needed.

Of course, Mbappe’s own name is still being floated among the favourites. With Real Madrid securing a domestic double and a deep Champions League run, his contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. But perhaps in a show of humility or camaraderie, he has diverted attention from himself to uplift a fellow Frenchman.

As for the fans, the debate rages on. Some feel Yamal’s meteoric rise and his age make his accomplishments even more deserving of recognition. Others argue that Dembele’s comeback story, paired with silverware, gives him the edge.

“Dembele is finally fulfilling his potential,” one fan wrote. “And this season, he did it when it mattered most.”

As the footballing world awaits the official nominations and eventual winner of the 2025 Ballon d’Or, Mbappe’s endorsement of Dembele has added another layer to an already heated discussion.

In the end, whether it’s experience or youthful brilliance that takes home the prize, the message is clear: both Yamal and Dembele have lit up the football world this season. But if Kylian Mbappe had a vote, it would go to Ousmane Dembele—without hesitation.