Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe believes this may be the year he claims his first Ballon d’Or.
The 27-year-old registered 42 goals across 44 club appearances last season, although his team ended the campaign without a trophy.
He also collected the World Cup Golden Boot after scoring 10 times, raising his record career total in the tournament to 22 goals, despite France finishing in fourth place.
“Playing for Real Madrid, which I consider the greatest club in the world, naturally leads people to connect you with this prize,” he said.
“A lot of people have been discussing my chances of winning the Ballon d’Or. I have achieved something historic in football’s biggest competition, so perhaps this is the right year, but voters will make their own decisions.”
He added: “I have always believed that I am the world’s best player, though everyone is entitled to a different view.
“Others may see things another way, and I do not believe it is an argument we need to settle.
“This could certainly be my year to receive the Ballon d’Or, but the final choice belongs to the journalists.”
Mbappe’s best result in the Ballon d’Or standings came in 2023, when he placed third while representing Paris St-Germain.
Bookmakers currently rate three other players as more likely winners of the award, which is scheduled to be presented on 26 October.
England skipper Harry Kane is the leading candidate after setting a club record with 61 goals in 51 matches for Bayern Munich, helping the German side secure two trophies last season. He also found the net six times during the World Cup.
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal is considered the second favourite after winning La Liga with his club and the World Cup with Spain. He is followed by Barcelona and Spain colleague Rodri, who previously played for Manchester City.
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