France legend Makelele backs Mbappe for 2026 Ballon d’Or glory

France legend Makelele backs Mbappe for 2026 Ballon d’Or glory

Former Real Madrid midfielder Claude Makelele has backed Kylian Mbappe to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, describing him as the modern successor to Ronaldo Nazario.

The French legend believes Mbappe’s influence on the global stage sets him apart from his rivals, despite a limited trophy haul with Real Madrid this season.

Makelele insists the forward’s outstanding performances for club and country have strengthened his case for football’s most prestigious individual award.

"I'd love for Mbapp9 to win it," Makelele told Marca. "He hasn't picked up many trophies with Real Madrid this season, but what he's producing at this World Cup is exceptional.

"Kylian Mbappe’s relentless consistency season after season is drawing him closer and closer to Ronaldo Nazario.

“ We didn't call the Brazilian 'O Fenomeno' for nothing, and Mbappe is undoubtedly the phenomenon of his own generation.

“The frightening part is that he still has levels to reach. I am absolutely convinced: he is the closest thing we have seen to a modern-day R9.”