7.9.2026
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe says this could be a good year for him to win the Ballon d’Or for the first time.
The 27-year-old scored 42 goals in 44 games for his club last season but they did not win any trophies.
He won the World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals, taking his career tally at World Cups to a record 22 – although France finished fourth.
“I think when you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, people associate you with this award,” he said.
“There are many people that speak about me and the Ballon d’Or. Of course I’ve made history in the most important competition. Maybe it’s a good year for this but people can vote according to what they think.”
He added: “I always think I’m the best [player in the world] but everyone has their own opinion.
“Maybe people think different ways. I don’t think it’s a discussion we need to have.
“Of course this year could be good for me to win the Ballon d’Or. But journalists vote.”
Speaking about Real’s lack of recent trophies, he added: “My experience with Real Madrid says I shouldn’t think too long-term because a lot can change.
“I want to think how I can be ready, to help my team to win the game and to start the Champions League in a good way.”
Real Madrid coach José Mourinho recently said he would prefer if Mbappé scored fewer goals but also worked hard to help the team win titles.
Mbappé said he would accept lower numbers if it led to trophies, but noted they were not mutually exclusive.
“I’d take 30 goals with titles, yes, but… for me it’s an absurd debate,” said Mbappé.
“I always want to score goals and win titles… you don’t have to choose, you can do both things.”
Ikenga first Ibo movie to cross N75m mark FilmOne data reveals
Ikenga: The Last Festival continues to make a good showing at the Nigerian box office, crossing the N75m mark to become the first Ibo title of all time to score it that big.
According to FilmOne Entertainment in a post on X social media on Monday, the film staring Peter Edochie, Ikem Owoh, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Patience Ozokwo, Zubby Michael, Beverly Osu, Jide Kene Achufusi, Regina Daniels and Destiny Etiko and directed by Darlington Kelechi, has also maintained its position as the highest-grossing Nollywood film for three consecutive weeks.
In its first opening week in August it raked in N22m FilmOne said the film’s performance reflects the strong response it has received from moviegoers since its release.
“N75 MILLION & COUNTING! IKENGA is officially making history!” FilmOne said.
“Highest-grossing Nollywood film for 3 consecutive weeks and highest-grossing Igbo title of all time and we’re still counting!,” it added.
The distributor also thanked audiences who have supported the film, crediting moviegoers for helping drive its performance at the box office.
“A massive thank you to everyone who has shown up, bought a ticket, brought a friend, and made Ikenga the phenomenon it is,” the company said.
Ikenga: The Last Festival opened in Nigerian cinemas on August 21, 2026