French football legend Frank Leboeuf has expressed his doubts about Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or this year. According to Leboeuf, the award does not always go to the best player, which might hinder the two footballers’ prospects. Mbappe, in particular, has been having an outstanding season, with impressive performances for both his club and country, making a strong case for him to receive the individual award.
Leboeuf’s skepticism stems from his belief that the Ballon d’Or is not solely based on a player’s skills, but rather on their team’s success. He stated that the award often goes to players from winning teams, which could put Mbappe and Haaland at a disadvantage. Leboeuf’s comments come after Mbappe finished seventh in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings, a spot lower than his 2024 ranking. His highest finish in the competition was in 2023, when he came in third behind Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland.
The Ballon d’Or is considered one of the most prestigious individual honors in football, awarded annually to the best player in the world. While Mbappe and Haaland are among the top contenders, Leboeuf’s comments highlight the complexities of the voting process. The award’s criteria, which consider a player’s performance over a calendar year, can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes. As the football season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Mbappe and Haaland can secure the recognition they deserve, despite the challenges they may face in the Ballon d’Or race.
The upcoming season will be crucial for both players, as they strive to demonstrate their skills and lead their teams to success. With the Ballon d’Or nominations expected to be announced soon, football fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if Mbappe and Haaland can overcome the obstacles and take home the coveted award. As Leboeuf noted, the competition is fierce, and only time will tell if these talented players will receive the recognition they deserve.
