Former Brazil forward Sonny Anderson has tipped Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé to win Monday’s Ballon d’Or, placing the French captain ahead of Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane in his predicted top three.
Anderson’s predicted Ballon d’Or podium
- First: Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid
- Second: Lamine Yamal of Barcelona
- Third: Harry Kane of Bayern Munich
Anderson said Kane’s scoring output for Bayern Munich, combined with his contribution for England, justified a place among the leading candidates.
“My third-place choice would be Harry Kane because of what he has achieved at Bayern, where he has scored so many goals, and with England. He deserves a place on the podium,” Anderson said.
Yamal praised for creative flair
The former striker selected Yamal for second place, highlighting the Barcelona player’s ability to take on opponents and create opportunities.
“Lamine Yamal would be second. His dribbling and passing make me dream,” Anderson said.
Mbappé backed after prolific season
Mbappé was Anderson’s clear choice for the award, with the Brazilian pointing to the Real Madrid forward’s exceptional record in front of goal.
“For me, Kylian Mbappé is number one. As a scorer, there is nothing more you could ask for,” he said.
- Mbappé won the Golden Boot as the highest scorer at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing ahead of Argentina’s Lionel Messi.
- The France captain also ended last season as the leading scorer in both the Champions League and LaLiga.
