Former Ballon d’Or winner explains why Kylian Mbappe missed out on top spot: ‘His communication strategy harmed him’

Jean-Pierre Papin believes Kylian Mbappe damaged his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or through his public comments and media appearances ahead of the award ceremony.

The former France international, who won the prestigious individual prize in 1991, has criticised the Real Madrid forward’s approach after he finished second in the voting behind Harry Kane.

Papin’s assessment centres on Mbappe’s decision to publicly defend his credentials and insist on his superiority during the season.

According to the former striker, statements such as “no one was better than me this season” may have worked against the Frenchman rather than strengthening his case for the award.

Despite Mbappe’s form in front of the goal, Papin believes that a player’s public image and communication can influence how their performances are perceived during individual award campaigns.

Jean-Pierre Papin criticises Mbappe’s Ballon d’Or campaign

Speaking on RMC Sport’s programme Rothen s’enflamme (h/t MARCA), Papin argued that Mbappe’s repeated media appearances ultimately undermined his efforts to win the Ballon d’Or.

Jean-Pierre Papin has criticised Mbappe’s approach ahead of the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Explaining why he believes the communication strategy proved damaging, Papin said,

“Mbappe’s communication strategy has done him a great deal of harm. In a way, it reflects who he is. It’s a shame, given his qualities and the club he plays for.”

Cristiano Ronaldo comparison highlights Papin’s concerns

Papin also drew a comparison between Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo, pointing towards what he perceives as similarities in their attitudes towards their teammates and their standing within a team.

Explaining the comparison, the former Ballon d’Or winner said: “Mbappe reminds me a bit of Cristiano Ronaldo: everyone else had to be at his service.”

Mbappe’s Ballon d’Or record illustrates his continued presence in the conversation surrounding the game’s leading individual honour.

He finished seventh in 2017, fourth in 2018, sixth in 2019, ninth in 2021, sixth in 2022, third in 2023, sixth in 2024 and seventh in 2025 before securing second place behind Kane in the latest voting.

Papin backs Mbappe to win the Ballon d’Or in the future

Mbappe finished second in 2026 Ballon d’Or voting. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)

Despite his criticism, Papin has not dismissed Mbappe’s chances of eventually claiming the award.

Instead, he believes the Real Madrid forward still has the quality and time necessary to achieve that ambition.

Clarifying his position on Mbappe’s prospects, Papin said: “In terms of effectiveness, he’s not far off what Cristiano Ronaldo used to achieve. But his communication strategy has backfired on him.

“I’m convinced he’ll win the Ballon d’Or; he has what it takes to do so. It wasn’t a case of ‘now or never’.

“It was a good opportunity, yes, but he still has some way to go,” he noted.