Papin Explains Why Mbappé Missed Out on the 2026 Ballon d’Or

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France legend Jean-Pierre Papin believes Kylian Mbappé’s public campaign for the 2026 Ballon d’Or may have worked against him. Mbappé finished second behind England captain Harry Kane after scoring 42 goals in 44 appearances last season. Before the award, the Real Madrid forward said he believed no player had performed better than him. Papin praised Mbappé’s goalscoring ability but said the approach may have put some people off. He remains confident that the France captain has the talent to win the award in the future.

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