Kylian Mbappé's Ballon d'Or campaign criticized after second-place finish to Harry Kane

footmercato.net (French) —

Kylian Mbappé finished second in the 2026 Ballon d'Or behind Harry Kane, marking his best career placement, but journalist Bertrand Latour harshly criticized his conduct on Canal+. Latour accused the Real Madrid forward and France captain of aggressively campaigning for the award, citing Mbappé's public statements about Africa's importance to him as an example of forcing votes. The journalist advised Mbappé to focus on winning matches and trophies on the pitch, urging him to show class and avoid conflicts with long-time friends over the individual prize.


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Kylian Mbappé's Ballon d'Or campaign criticized after second-place finish to Harry Kane | News Minimalist