Papin sees Mbappé as the future Cristiano Ronaldo, predicts Ballon d’Or
Jean‑Pierre Papin has spoken, praising Kylian Mbappé as a future Cristiano Ronaldo while predicting that he will win the Ballon d’Or, even though the same player has just finished second behind Harry Kane, his best ranking at twenty‑seven years old and a clear disappointment.
Papin criticises Mbappé's communication
The pundit, Ballon d’Or 1991 and former scorer for OM and AC Milan, said: “Mbappé’s communication has been terrible for him. It has somewhat reflected what the character is.” He added that the numerous media statements aimed at defending his record have backfired on him.
Papin continued, emphasizing that, despite the player’s qualities and his move to Real Madrid, “he reminds me a bit of Cristiano Ronaldo, others needed to get on his side.” According to him, “in terms of effectiveness, he is not far from what Cristiano Ronaldo used to do,” but the communication campaign has damaged his image.
Mbappé’s Ballon d’Or ranking
In 2026, Kylian Mbappé took second place in the Ballon d’Or, ahead of only Harry Kane, which represents the best ranking of his career at twenty‑seven years old. The player had nevertheless claimed the previous month in the pages of France Football: “There was no one better than me last season.”
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Before this second podium, Mbappé had finished seventh in 2017, fourth in 2018, sixth in 2019, ninth in 2021, sixth in 2022, third in 2023, sixth in 2024 and seventh in 2025, showing a steady progression but never the victory.
Papin remains convinced: “I am convinced that he will get the Ballon d’Or, he has the qualities to have it.” He believes the year was not the right one, but the situation remains a “great opportunity,” even though the player still has a long way to go.
The contrast between the comparison to Ronaldo and the communication setback shows that, despite Kylian Mbappé’s undeniable talent, public perception can influence the outcome of football’s most prestigious award.