Ousmane Dembele Advocates Teammate’s Bid for Next Ballon d’Or Victory
Ousmane Dembélé has publicly endorsed Kylian Mbappé’s pursuit of the esteemed Ballon d’Or award. Dembélé, who recently claimed the 2025 Ballon d’Or title, made headlines after his impressive performance with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), leading them to their first Champions League victory. His triumph sets the stage for a strong camaraderie and support among French football stars.
Dembélé’s Endorsement of Mbappé
After receiving the prestigious accolade, Dembélé expressed his hope for Mbappé’s future success. “He deserves it for his career,” Dembélé remarked. The PSG star acknowledged Mbappé’s excellent start to the current season, highlighting his ongoing scoring prowess as a significant factor in his favor. “I hope one day he wins the Ballon d’Or,” he added during a press interaction following a decisive win against Bayer Leverkusen.
Mbappé’s Recent Performance
Kylian Mbappé has made a remarkable start to the 2025-26 season, registering 15 goals and two assists across all competitions. His performance positions him as a strong contender for the next Ballon d’Or, especially if he maintains this form. However, his aspirations also hinge on potential silverware at both domestic and international levels.
Statistics of Mbappé and Dembélé
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| France Caps | 40 |
| PSG Appearances | 39 |
| Joint Goal Participation | 11 |
The Ballon d’Or Landscape
Question marks surround Mbappé’s chances despite a strong personal season with Real Madrid. His previous shortcomings in various competitions affected his 2023 Ballon d’Or placement, where he finished third. Historical context shows that major international tournaments, like the World Cup, can significantly bolster a player’s chances for the award. Luka Modrić’s 2018 victory over established stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi illustrates this point.
As the football world looks toward the 2026 Ballon d’Or, Mbappé’s performance in upcoming matches, particularly during the World Cup, could play a pivotal role in his quest for the coveted title. If he triumphs with France and secures a strong domestic season, he could follow in Dembélé’s footsteps, potentially becoming the seventh French player to achieve this honor.
