In an interview with France Football, PSG striker Kylian Mbappe revealed his personal top 3 choices to bag this year's prestigious Ballon d'Or award.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) sensational striker Kylian Mbappe, who was embroiled in a high-octane drama over a potential transfer to Real Madrid at the end of last season, has been nominated for the Ballon d'Or 2022 award. The 23-year-old Frenchman signed a three-year contract with the Ligue 1 champions and would be looking forward to continuing his form from the last campaign to help the team seal Champions League glory.
In an interview with France Football, Mbappe revealed his top three candidates who could bag this year's prestigious Ballon d'Or award. When asked about the potential winners, the striker responded: "My top three? I would say Benzema, myself, and Mane."
"I would say that this year is a success for Benzema. He's 34 years old, has just had the season of his life, has won another Champions League and is often decisive. If I were Karim, if I don't win this, I'll stop thinking about the Ballon d'Or forever," the Frenchman added.
"I want to win the Ballon d'Or very soon. Like many. Except that there are perhaps not many who dare to admit it. I'm still convinced that the hardest thing is to win the first. My 18-21-year-old period allowed me to stabilise in the Top 10. I wasn't an impactful enough player. I think I have reached a new level over the last two years. I have a more assertive status on the pitch. I am doing better in the decisive matches. In short, I am a more credible and serious candidate," Mbappe stated.
Last night, a 30-man shortlisted for this year's Ballon d'Or was revealed, with the notable omission of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) forward Lionel Messi, who will be absent from the running for the first time since 2005. The list includes four Frenchmen: Christopher Nkunku, Kylian Mbappe, Mike Maignan and Karim Benzema.
Also read: Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti backs Karim Benzema for Ballon d'Or following new record