Rwanda forward Mickels picks Mbappe to win 2026 Ballon d’Or
Rwanda forward Joy-Lance Mickels has named Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe as the player who deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Speaking ahead of Rwanda’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Liberia on Friday, Mickels told New Times that Mbappe’s season has been exceptional and shows why he is among the world’s best players. Mickels, who plays for Sabah, added that the France captain’s performances for club and country merit the award.
Mbappe is one of the 30 players shortlisted for the 2026 Ballon d’Or following his strong showings with Real Madrid and the French national team. The award, given annually to the best male footballer, has never been won by an African-born player. Mickels’ endorsement highlights Mbappe’s standing ahead of the ceremony later this year.
For Nigerian football fans tracking the race, Mickels’ comment adds weight to Mbappe’s candidacy and underscores the continued debate over when an African player might finally claim football’s top individual honour. Will Mbappe break the continent’s Ballon d’Or drought, or will another contender emerge as the favourite?