Real Madrid legend backs PSG star for Ballon d’Or ahead of Mbappe: ‘Number 1 without hesitation’

In a FIFA World Cup year, the Ballon d’Or is often decided by the result of the global event and performances at the same time.

The situation this time around, however, is queer.

Spain, who won the World Cup, had no clear bona fide overperformer and won because of their collective efforts. The teams that had clear standout individuals, meanwhile, all fell short.

Lionel Messi, Real Madrid‘s Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and even Vinicius Jr. had spectacular World Cup campaigns but all fell short. Further, all their club seasons were far from impressive, making the Ballon d’Or complicated.

In the Spanish contingent, meanwhile, Rodri stood out but barely played for the club through injury, and Lamine Yamal who shone for Barcelona was not as effective in the World Cup.

At this point, the race is thus more open than ever before.
names his favourite for the Ballon d’Or

Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos spoke to the media recently as reported by Florian Malburg, and one of the topics touched upon in the process was that of the Ballon d’Or.

Kroos has backed Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for Ballon d’Or.. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Making his stance clear, the German international backed Paris Saint-Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as his clear favourite for the award and even reasoned out the same.

“The Ballon d’Or should go to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia,” he began.

“He’s probably not going to win but he’s the number 1 without hesitation,” he added, acknowledging that the likelihood of it really happening was very slim.

Kroos then backed up his claim with reasons and explained why he felt the Georgian star was the most deserving candidate despite missing out on the FIFA World Cup.

“The best World Cup players: Messi, Jude, Mbappé, Rodri had average club seasons.”

“Kvara was the best player from the best club in the world,” he added, showering praise on Kvaratskhelia and PSG.

Mbappe had a stunning individual season. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

At this point, the only Real Madrid player who has a real chance at the Ballon d’Or is Mbappe, and certain outlets even proclaim him as a favourite.

Given the season the Frenchman had, it would indeed be thoroughly deserved for he was the Pichichi winner and Real Madrid’s top scorer by some distance last season. 

What is against Mbappe, however, is the fact that he did not win a single trophy – neither with Real Madrid nor with France. In all likelihood, the lack of team success will play against his chances.