Kylian Mbappé has returned to the France team, and a new coach at its head. The tumult of Real Madrid must seem far away with this brand new management at Clairefontaine. He can think of something other than the criticism coming from his own supporters in Spain after the controversy linked to the t-shirt in support of the inhabitants of Ceuta, and more generally about the form of his club, beaten in the Madrid derby by Atlético last weekend, after having had scares against Elche in La Liga and against Inter in the Champions League. Currently in his head, it is mainly the Ballon d’Or that concerns him.
Like the other favorites for the trophy, the captain of the Blues launched a media campaign to give the arguments in favor of his candidacy. Unlike its competitors, this one is very intense. The attacker spoke to almost everyone: France Football, A.S., Téléfoot, The Athletic, Bild, CNN and now RFI. Each time, it is to praise its qualities to a varied audience, its aim being to convince as many people as possible, and to also touch the jury, those who vote. The last interview given to Radio France International is intended for an African audience where a good part of the election is being played out.
A counterproductive media hype
He even made it an electoral argument. “ That never changed, I always felt very loved every time I set foot in Africa. Of course, having African origins, it’s always nice to see people associate me with this award, it’s gratifying. I thank them for everything, and I hope to be able to leave with the Ballon d’Or to, in one way or another, dedicate it to them. » Some point to a form of demagoguery, like Daniel Riolo on the airwaves of RMC. Generally speaking, this media campaign bludgeoned by Mbappé and his entourage is not really paying off.
It rather highlights the individualistic character of the player and even risks doing him a disservice. All arguments are good according to him. Last year at this time, he mentioned collective titles as his strong point to win. This year changes course, it is the personal accomplishments that must be remembered. Despite this omnipresence which is now the subject of mockery on social networks, Mbappé is losing ground on the other favorites according to English bookmakers. His rating has fallen by 17 points in recent days, like Lamine Yamal, who also did not hesitate to grant numerous interviews (press conference, Movistar, The Team).
His arguments are detrimental to him and are a source of tension
It seems like campaigning doesn’t pay. The Barcelonan, 2nd in voting intentions ahead of Mbappé, lost 28% chance of winning. The favorite is Harry Kane (+43%) and that may come as a surprise. He has not won any major titles apart from the Bundesliga but has phenomenal statistics with Bayern. The Englishman is more discreet, not silent either since he has already publicly defended his chances for the Ballon d’Or. Behind this leading trio, Rodri, Lionel Messi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé and Fabian Ruiz start further in the eyes of the voters who have until September 28 to transmit their choice.
This campaign is also a source of tension regarding the locker room of the French team, like Mbappé’s statement addressed to his friend Dembélé. “ He has always been seen as a talented player. Me, I have always been seen as the chosen one “, said the Madrilenian. The situation had to be defused. Even Zidane brushed aside the subject during his first press conference. Kylian Mbappé is no longer a prophet in his country of birth, any more than he is of his adopted country. The Spanish media do not understand his arguments. They criticize him, as with Real Madrid, for scoring against the weak and stopping against the strong. “ Scoring goals in the World Cup against Iraq, Sweden and Paraguay is great. » You will note the hint of irony.
