Sagna Backs Mbappe for 2026 Ballon d'Or Amid Criticism

Former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna has endorsed Kylian Mbappe for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, citing the Frenchman's exceptional form and individual displays. Sagna commended Mbappe's prolific season, where he has scored 38 goals for club and country, including 11 in the UEFA Champions League.

Sagna believes Mbappe is well-placed to win the prestigious award. In contrast, former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf expressed skepticism about the Ballon d'Or criteria, suggesting that the award often favors players from title-winning teams rather than standout individuals.

Mbappe finished seventh in the 2025 Ballon d'Or rankings, with his best result being third place in 2023. The article also mentions Mbappe's goal-scoring record in the Champions League, where he narrowly missed breaking Cristiano Ronaldo's group stage goal record.