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Mbappé’s Ballon d’Or Quest: Hazard Predicts a Crown for the French Star

25 January 2026

Mbappé’s Ballon d’Or Quest: Hazard Predicts a Crown for the French Star
Hazard predicts Mbappé's Ballon d'Or future while Madrid competes on multiple fronts.

Mbappe's Ballon d'Or Odds

The French standout has set high bars at the season's outset, according to Hazard, the Belgian legend recently retired from Real Madrid and Chelsea.

Hazard, now commenting on Mbappé’s form, notes that Mbappé has been exceptional for Real Madrid, topping La Liga with 21 goals and leading the Champions League with 11.

Hazard's Take on the Road Ahead

In an interview on Telefoot, Hazard said: "He has set the bar very high at the start of the season. I think he will win it."

He added that Mbappé must win the Champions League and the Spanish league, and reach deep in the World Cup. Hazard is not worried: the Ballon d'Or will be his.

Real Madrid sit second in La Liga with 51 points, one point behind Barcelona after 21 rounds.

In the Champions League, Madrid are third with 15 points, still able to qualify for the last 16 if they beat Benfica in the final group game.

Regarding the World Cup, scheduled for next summer in the United States, Canada and Mexico, France await in Group 9 alongside Norway, Senegal, and a qualifier.

Mbbapé, who joined Real Madrid on a free transfer at the start of last season, already lifted the 2018 World Cup in Russia and reached the final in Qatar, only to lose on penalties to Argentina.

Punchline: If Mbappé keeps this up, the Ballon d'Or might need a bigger shelf. And Hazard adds: the trophy won’t hide from the spotlight—Madrid’s mantelpiece just found a new guest star.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Hazard say about Mbappé's Ballon d'Or chances?

He believes Mbappé has set high standards at the start of the season and is capable of winning the Ballon d'Or, but he must win the Champions League, La Liga, and perform well at the World Cup.

What are Real Madrid's current standings and Europe status?

Real Madrid are second in La Liga with 51 points after 21 rounds and third in the Champions League with 15 points, still able to reach the last 16 by beating Benfica.

When and where is the World Cup mentioned, and what group is France in?

The World Cup is scheduled for next summer in the United States, Canada and Mexico; France are in Group 9 with Norway, Senegal and a qualifier.

What past achievements of Mbappé are noted?

Mbappé joined Real Madrid on a free transfer last season, won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and reached the final in Qatar 2022 before losing on penalties to Argentina.