Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe backs himself for Ballon d’ Or and responds to viral ‘dictator’ nickname | OneFootball

Real Madrid are preparing to face Rayo Vallecano in La Liga, and Kylian Mbappe will be hoping to continue his good start to the season.

The Frenchman has scored five goals in five games across all competitions so far. He has insisted that his goalscoring will never be a problem despite the criticism levelled at him.

As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, Mbappe has spoken openly about two very different subjects surrounding him at Madrid: his viral “dictator” nickname and his ambition to finally win the Ballon d’Or.

Mbappe sets limits on viral nickname

The nickname originated from a joke made by Ousmane Dembele during a France camp, and Mbappe drew a clear distinction between that and some of the harsher narratives circulating online.

“Sometimes it shows a lack of political and human awareness,” Mbappe said.

On Dembele’s version of the joke, however, his tone was much lighter.

“What Ousmane does is different. He got it from social media! His version is something to laugh about, not something meant to hurt,” Mbappe explained.

The important point for Madrid is that Mbappe does not appear distracted by the noise surrounding him.

He is comfortable enough to joke about part of it while still setting boundaries where he feels they are needed.

The Ballon d’Or ambition

Mbappe was even more direct when the subject turned to the Ballon d’Or.

“Who would I vote for? Myself,” he said with a laugh.

“I have the idea that I can win it this year, so I have not taken a step back on that subject. Of course I can win it.

“I have arguments, like being the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history ahead of great legends, in the biggest tournament ever created,” he continued.

Mbappe has never hidden his individual ambition, and there is no reason he should. At Madrid, the challenge is simply making sure personal goals remain tied to collective success.

Mbappe believes he deserves the Ballon d’Or this year. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Mbappe also pointed out that individual awards are always subjective.

“Or being the top scorer in other competitions alongside other great players. It is an individual award, and there has never been unanimity over the winners, so many people think they can win it,” the Frenchman concluded.

Mbappe had an excellent club season with Madrid despite the team overall failing to win any silverware.

He then continued his excellent form at the World Cup, where he walked away with the Golden Boot ahead of the likes of Lionel Messi.

There is a case to be made for Mbappe to be the deserving Ballon d’Or winner this season, and it remains to be seen how matters unfold.