"He reminds me of Cristiano Ronaldo": Papin criticises Mbappé's Ballon d'Or communication (but thinks "he will win it")

Papin criticises Mbappé's media campaign around the award, saying his self-promotion backfired despite finishing second to Kane.

Kylian Mbappé finished second in the 2026 Ballon d'Or voting, behind Harry Kane, marking his best finish yet at age 27. The result disappointed Mbappé, who had stated last month in France Football: "There is no one better than me last season."

Former Ballon d'Or winner Jean-Pierre Papin believes Mbappé's extensive media appearances defending his record worked against him. "Mbappé's communication was terrible for him. It reflected a bit what the character is like. It's a shame when you have his qualities and when you play at this club (Real Madrid). He reminds me a bit of Cristiano Ronaldo—he needed others to be at his service," Papin said on RMC's Rothen s'enflamme.

Despite the criticism, Papin remains confident in Mbappé's future prospects. "In terms of efficiency, he's not far from what Cristiano Ronaldo did. But his communication campaign was a bit against him. I'm convinced he will win the Ballon d'Or—he has the qualities for it. This wasn't a now-or-never year. It was a good opportunity, yes, but he still has a way to go," the former Olympique Marseille and AC Milan striker added.