Mbappé Praises Dembélé's Chances for Ballon d'Or Victory in France
In the exciting world of football, the race for the prestigious Ballon d'Or award is heating up as the 2025-26 season begins. Several top players, including Ousmane Dembele, Kylian Mbappe, and Raphinha, are vying for the coveted title.
Dembele, who had a stellar season with Barcelona, is making waves for his impressive performances. He became the first player to provide two assists in a Champions League final since Marcelo in 2018, and his overall goal involvements across all competitions in the 2024-25 season totaled an impressive 46 (33 goals, 13 assists).
Raphinha, on the other hand, has caught the attention of his Barcelona teammates, Dembele included, with his remarkable form. He equaled Cristiano Ronaldo's Champions League record of 21 goal contributions in a single season (2013-14).
The competition is fierce, with a host of other players also in the running. Mohamed Salah, Vitinha, Achraf Hakimi, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue, Lautaro Martinez, Pedri, and Harry Kane are all contenders for the award. Notably, Mbappe and Dembele are joined by Mbappe himself on the shortlist.
Mbappe, who recently joined Real Madrid, had a successful debut season, breaking Ivan Zamorano's record for the most goals scored by a player in their maiden campaign with the club (37 goals). He has started the 2025-26 season in fine form, netting three goals in Los Blancos' first three games under new manager Xabi Alonso.
Mbappe's confidence in Real Madrid's potential for the upcoming season is evident. He is optimistic about the team's chances of winning more silverware, having endured a trophyless campaign in his debut year. Mbappe has also expressed his admiration for Alonso, describing him as a man who wants to succeed.
Lamine Yamal, another contender for the Ballon d'Or, has been instrumental in Barcelona's attack. He plundered 18 goals and registered 21 assists for the Catalan giants, and his dribbling skills were unmatched, completing more dribbles (244) than any other player in Europe's top five leagues.
Mbappe has also spoken up for his fellow defender, Achraf Hakimi, expressing the importance of recognizing defenders in the Ballon d'Or race.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen who will emerge victorious in the Ballon d'Or race. One thing is certain, though - the competition is fierce, and every player is giving their all to claim the prestigious award.
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