Spanish journalist says Kane outshines Mbappé ahead of Ballon d’Or
Spanish journalist Anton Meana has told Cadena Ser that Harry Kane has out‑performed Kylian Mbappé in every respect, and that the French forward is finding little support in Spain three days before the Ballon d’Or ceremony officially in London this week.
Meana says Kane leads the race
Anton Meana, speaking to Cadena Ser, named Harry Kane as the principal rival to the Real Madrid and France striker. He noted that voters are bound by exclusive contracts with France Football until the votes are released, yet they are free to share their impressions. Meana’s assessment, therefore, does not tip the balance in Mbappé’s favour.
‘Kane l’a surpassé en tout’, Meana declared, adding that the English forward has scored more goals, eliminated the Frenchman from the Champions League and beaten him at the World Cup. He also pointed out Kane’s title wins in Germany, contrasting them with Mbappé’s self‑portrayed season, which Meana says is overstated.
Mbappé's campaign meets scepticism
Since the 2026 World Cup, Mbappé has openly campaigned for the Ballon d’Or, insisting he is the season’s best player. In interviews with France Football and L’Équipe he claimed there was ‘no better player’ than him. Mourinho and Mbappé have even been asked: Qui détient la clé de la saison du Real Madrid?
Mourinho insists Arsenal‑linked Vinicius remains no‑greater than Real Madrid badge
Other names have also dominated the conversation. Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona has been mentioned alongside Kane as a potential challenger, and Cadena Ser journalist Antonio Romero believes the young prodigy now holds the rope. In Spain, Mbappé is even excluded from several debates.
The Ballon d’Or race has been intense since the World Cup final, with players publicly voicing their desire to win. The episode, which has lasted several weeks, will conclude on Monday when the winner is announced at the London Palladium.
Vinicius Junior and Lamine Yamal already plan the Ballon d'Or
Votes remain sealed until a few days after the ceremony, meaning the final tally will reveal whether Meana’s view of Kane’s superiority holds true.