Madrid, Sep 12 (V7N)- Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé believes he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or despite going without a major trophy with both club and country this season.

The 27-year-old made the comments in an interview with France Football on Friday (September 11), saying the award primarily recognizes individual achievement and can therefore be won without team trophies.

“I believe I can win it this year,” Mbappé said. “It is one of my goals—a short-term goal. People say I haven't won any trophies, but this is an individual award.”

He argued that the Ballon d'Or has never been a unanimous decision, meaning there will always be people who believe another player is more deserving.

Last season, Mbappé scored 15 goals in the Champions League and 25 in La Liga for Real Madrid. He also increased his World Cup scoring tally to 22 goals, becoming the tournament's all-time leading scorer. However, France's campaign ended with a 2-0 semifinal defeat to Spain.

Mbappé said his understanding of the Ballon d'Or was shaped by the era of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, arguing that the award is intended for players who distinguish themselves from their peers.

“I think I did something this year that set me apart,” he said. “That is why I believe I can win it.”

Asked whether he considered himself a worthy contender, Mbappé responded: “There was no player better than me.”

He pointed to his scoring record in major competitions and his World Cup achievement as evidence of his credentials. Mbappé said becoming the tournament's leading scorer was particularly significant because he surpassed legendary players, including Lionel Messi.

Meanwhile, Mbappé praised Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over as head coach of the French national team following Didier Deschamps.

“He means so much to the French people. He is a legend—the nation's ‘Zizou.’ He embodies elegance and greatness,” Mbappé said.

He added that Zidane stands apart among players who have represented France, describing him as a figure who has transcended generations and left a lasting mark on French football.

END/SMA/AJ