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9 months ago
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The football season officially ended yesterday with the last game of the French national team. The match featured another goal from Kylian Mbappé, his 54th of the season, a new record for a French player. However, it may not be enough for him to win the Ballon d’Or.
Kylian Mbappé’s performances in the last two matches against Gibraltar and Greece were not his best, but he managed to be decisive and score two penalties to break an ancient record. He scored 54 goals in all competitions this season, club and national team included, in just 56 matches. That’s almost a goal per game, the statistics are incredible.
He has surpassed the late Just Fontaine, who had scored “only” 53 goals in the 1957-1958 season, in 41 matches, 15 fewer than Mbappé.
Despite this achievement, the question remains: Can Mbappé win the Ballon d’Or? When asked by TF1, Mbappé said he believed he deserved the award, but it is debatable.
In terms of individual performances and decisive character, Mbappé has been impressive, but so have other players like Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland. Messi scored in every knockout match for Argentina during the World Cup, including a brace in the final. Haaland became the top scorer in the Premier League and the Champions League, surpassing Mbappé’s achievements in those competitions.
In terms of collective performances and achievements, Messi and Haaland also have more impressive records compared to Mbappé, with both winning more titles with their respective clubs.
In conclusion, while Mbappé had a great season statistically, he may not deserve the Ballon d’Or this time. Hopefully, he will have more success next season with PSG and the French national team.
Written by:
At 35, Mike Murphy is a familiar name in American sports journalism, especially in the exciting world of soccer. Born and raised in a small Midwest town where soccer is more than just a sport—it's a tradition—Mike quickly developed a deep passion for the game. He has since turned his love for the pitch into a flourishing career as a sports writer. Mike combines an encyclopedic knowledge of stats, teams, and players with a knack for storytelling that captures the essence of soccer. Whether he's analyzing a coach's strategy or describing the electrifying atmosphere of a packed stadium, his writing is as dynamic and unpredictable as the game itself. His unique approach blends technical analysis with personal anecdotes, making his articles more than just sports coverage, but a truly immersive experience for readers. Mike is also a staunch advocate for the development of soccer in the United States, spotlighting local talent and encouraging the growth of the sport across the country.
