Kylian Mbappe told 2025 Ballon d'Or nod would be 'nonsense' despite 43-goal season for Real Madrid's newest 'Galactico'

Mbappe's 43-goal season with Real Madrid is not worthy enough for the Ballon d’Or, according to French football expert Jonathan Johnson. Speaking on the Ensemble PSG podcast, Johnson said he does not see Mbappe as a leading contender for Europe’s most prestigious prize, even if Real Madrid win the Club World Cup.

Even though Mbappe had a slow start to life at Madrid, he quickly became the club’s talisman as he picked up form in the latter part of the season, with his hat-trick against Manchester City standing out as the crown jewel of his campaign. With the hat-trick against City, the crown jewel of his achievement.

However, with Real Madrid being knocked out of the Champions League by Arsenal and losing the La Liga title to bitter rivals Barcelona, Mbappe’s 43 goals ultimately came to little avail for Los Blancos.

Meanwhile, Mbappe's compatriot Ousmane Dembele is enjoying a career-defining season, having helped PSG secure a domestic double, which could turn into a historic treble if they defeat Inter Milan in the Champions League final on 31 May. With the Champions League carrying significant weight in the Ballon d’Or race, Dembélé, along with Raphinha and Donnarumma, could emerge as frontrunners for the coveted Golden Ball.

Johnson commented on Mbappe’s Ballon d’Or chances, saying: "I think, specific to Mbappe and Real Madrid’s situation, it would be ridiculous for Mbappe’s Ballon d’Or weight to hinge solely on scoring a handful of goals and helping them win the Club World Cup." However, he also added a note of caution: "But there’s a lot of nonsense in modern football, unfortunately. I’m not going to say it will happen, but I wouldn’t totally rule out some stupidity like that either."

With the La Liga season having come to an end on 25 May, Real Madrid are set to face Saudi club Al Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup on 19 June.