Raúl Asencio backs Kylian Mbappé to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, calling the Real Madrid forward the best among the 30 nominees

Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio has backed teammate Kylian Mbappé to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, describing the France captain as the best player among the nominees for the prestigious individual award.

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Asencio made the declaration in an interview with AS, where he expressed his belief that Mbappé deserves to claim the prize ahead of the other shortlisted players.

“Kylian Mbappé deserves the Ballon d’Or, he’s the best among the nominees,” Asencio said.

Mbappé is among the 30 players shortlisted for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with the award recognising the outstanding individual performer during the year under review.

The Real Madrid forward has enjoyed a prolific campaign despite failing to win a trophy during the period considered for the award.

The France international finished as the top scorer in LaLiga, the Champions League and the World Cup, achievements that have strengthened his case for the prestigious honour.

His performances in front of goal have made him one of the leading contenders, with the final outcome set to be determined when the award ceremony takes place.

Mbappé’s inclusion among the nominees has also generated significant debate over who deserves to succeed the previous winner, with individual statistics, major performances and team success all likely to influence the final vote.

For Asencio, however, there is little doubt about who stands above the rest.

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The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced on October 26, when the leading contenders will discover who has secured the coveted individual prize.