Former Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes has cast doubt on Kylian Mbappe’s chances of winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or, despite the Frenchman’s strong performances for both Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, Soccernet.football reports.
While Mbappe is one of the 30 nominees for the prestigious award, Morientes believes other players, particularly Real Madrid teammates Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Jr, are more deserving.
Asked by AS about his Ballon d’Or favourite, Morientes offered an unexpected response: “The one I would give it to is more complicated. Because giving it to a right-back… Football is passion and it’s about goals. I think they’re going to give it to Vinicius, and he more than deserves it.
“If they gave it to Carvajal or Bellingham, it would be very deserved too. Or to Rodri. The Ballon d’Or is very subjective, and goals count a lot.”
Despite his opinion on the Ballon d’Or, Morientes holds high regard for Mbappe, who has already made a significant impact at Real Madrid, scoring five goals and providing one assist in his first seven league games.
“I’ve seen him doing well. He’s more automatic on the wing, where he mainly played at PSG. But I’m seeing him doing well. He’s constantly making runs, and because he’s so fast and strong, he always wins the position,” Morientes said when asked about Mbappe’s adaptation to a central role.
Mbappe’s transition to playing as a centre-forward has impressed Morientes, who backs the 2018 World Cup winner to succeed in the position as he settles at Real Madrid. “I like Mbappé in the centre… the one he suits most is Mbappé, and he’s doing well.”
However, Real Madrid will have to manage without Mbappe for their upcoming derby clash against Atletico Madrid, as the star striker is currently sidelined with an injury.