Bacary Sagna Places Kylian Mbappe Among Top Three, Picks Kvaratskhelia for 2026 Ballon d’Or
Former France international Bacary Sagna recently told GOAL that Kylian Mbappe is currently among the top three footballers globally, but he doubts Mbappe will claim the Ballon d’Or in 2026. Despite Mbappe’s status as a superstar with Real Madrid and France, Sagna believes another player deserves the award this year.
Kane and Rodri Also Considered for 2026 Golden Ball
The title of best player often goes to someone who lifts a global trophy in a World Cup year, which puts stars from Spain in a strong position after their recent success in North America. Rodri, last year’s Ballon d’Or winner, along with his new Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal, are contenders for 2026 honors.
Harry Kane, who scored 61 goals for Bayern Munich last season, is another candidate. Yet, lacking a Champions League win in 2026 diminishes his chances. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain secured back-to-back Champions League titles, suggesting that players like Ousmane Dembele or other PSG talents might rise to the top of Ballon d’Or voting.
Sagna’s Pick: Kvaratskhelia Over Mbappe and Kane
Speaking with GOAL in partnership with BetVictor Online Casino, Sagna was asked if Mbappe deserved the Ballon d’Or as the world's best player. He responded:
“For me, the best at the minute is in the top three. He had an amazing year and is one of the best. But being a striker gives more chances to score, so more chances for people to look at him favourably.
For me, Kvara deserves the Ballon d’Or. He has been phenomenal as a winger with such impact and a successful campaign. Apart from winning the Champions League, I think players will agree that Kvara was the most important player last season.
Of course, Kylian had an amazing World Cup and I was pleased to see him scoring many goals, not just because he’s French but because I love football. His current season start shows his level, and he is among the top few players. He might be the best in the world, but the question is how impactful were you for your team last season?”
Will Mbappe Ever Win the Ballon d’Or?
Real Madrid have missed out on major trophies for two seasons despite Mbappe’s impressive individual stats, including two La Liga Golden Boots and 90 goals in 106 appearances. When asked if Mbappe will ever secure the Ballon d’Or, former France star Louis Saha shared with GOAL:
“It’s difficult because he wants those trophies. Winning the Champions League boosts your chance to win the Ballon d’Or. He knows that’s how you show all your qualities to the best eyes.
I understand the pressure since it’s been controversial not reaching finals. He left a club that won it and joined one expected to be favorites but didn’t reach finals.
It raises questions personally and spiritually. It’s like he’s been unlucky, and he wants to fix that fast.
It’s great to see someone succeed when they have potential. I think he deserves it. Even if people criticize his style, he wants everything.
Every situation revolves around him, which is a sign of greatness. But if things don’t work out, criticism comes easily. If Cristiano hadn’t won trophies, he would have been finished long ago.”
Mbappe’s Record-Breaking Feats Continue
Mbappe set a record at the 2026 World Cup as the competition’s all-time leading scorer. He holds the same record with the French national team and PSG. This season at Real Madrid, he already netted a hat-trick against Real Sociedad. With Jose Mourinho aiming to restore trophies to the club, Mbappe’s impressive form might put him back into serious contention for the Ballon d’Or.
- Top Players in 2026 Ballon d’Or Discussion: Kylian Mbappe, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Harry Kane, Rodri, Lamine Yamal, Ousmane Dembele
- Mbappe’s 2025-26 Season Stats: 90 goals in 106 games for Real Madrid, two La Liga Golden Boots
- Harry Kane’s 2025-26 Season: 61 goals for Bayern Munich, no Champions League win
- Champions League Winners: Paris Saint-Germain (back-to-back titles)
- World Cup 2026: Mbappe becomes all-time leading scorer in tournament history
