You didn't see this coming! Will Mbappé win the Ballon d'Or?

It's a paradox, but Spain's spectacular success might actually prevent its leaders from claiming the year's most prestigious individual honor.

Details: According to L’Équipe, Spain's collective triumph could lead to Ballon d'Or votes being split between Rodri, Lamine Yamal, Fabián Ruiz, and Dani Olmo. The voters may simply fail to rally behind a single Spanish star as their clear favorite.

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This scenario could unexpectedly play right into Kylian Mbappé's hands. Despite ending the season without a single team trophy at club or international level, support for his candidacy could turn out to be far more consolidated.

The Frenchman's main argument remains his outstanding individual scoring prowess. Mbappé netted ten goals at the 2026 World Cup and took home the tournament's Golden Boot.

So, with four Spanish contenders taking votes off each other, the door could swing open for Mbappé to claim his very first Ballon d'Or.

Remarkably, at the World Cup, Mbappé also raised his total number of goals at the tournament to 22, setting a new all-time record.

Reminder: Making history! Mbappé equals Gerd Müller's 56-year-old record.