According to a report by ESPN on Monday, November 9, 2026, former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has backed Kylian Mbappe to have won the 2026 Ballon d’Or instead of Harry Kane, following the French forward's outstanding performances during the 2025/26 season.

Zidane made his feelings known despite Kane eventually winning the prestigious individual award. The England captain received more votes than the Real Madrid forward, forcing Mbappe to settle for second place and delaying his hopes of winning his first Ballon d’Or.

During an interview with Telefoot, Zidane acknowledged that choosing the best footballer in the world is not always easy because several players produce excellent performances throughout the season. However, he insisted that Mbappe's individual achievements were good enough to earn him the award.

The 27-year-old enjoyed an outstanding season with Real Madrid, scoring 42 goals in all competitions. His impressive performances also helped him win the Pichichi Trophy after finishing as the highest goalscorer in La Liga.

Mbappe also maintained his excellent form during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he finished as the tournament's leading goalscorer. His contributions helped France reach the semi-finals before their campaign ended in a defeat against Spain.

Spain eventually went on to win the World Cup after producing an impressive performance throughout the competition.

Despite his individual success, Real Madrid's failure to win a major trophy during the 2025/26 season reportedly worked against Mbappe in the Ballon d’Or voting. Kane, meanwhile, impressed with his performances for both club and country, allowing him to finish ahead of the Frenchman.

Nevertheless, Mbappe has continued his impressive goalscoring form this season. The French superstar has already scored 17 goals in 16 competitive appearances for Real Madrid, further proving how important he remains to the Spanish club.

Zidane has also previously discussed Mbappe's best position at Real Madrid, suggesting that the forward should be given enough freedom to operate in his preferred attacking role instead of being restricted to playing as a traditional centre-forward.

The former France international's latest remarks have once again generated debate about the 2026 Ballon d’Or outcome. Although Kane officially received the award, Mbappe's impressive goalscoring record, individual achievements and performances at the World Cup have strengthened the argument that he deserved to finish above the England captain.

The debate ultimately raises questions about the factors that should determine the world's best player, particularly whether individual statistics, team trophies or performances in major international competitions should carry the most weight.