Dembélé Declares Kvaratskhelia the Best, Not Mbappé, for Ballon d’Or 2025

Dembélé’s Bold Statement: Mbappé Isn’t the World’s Best Player

Clairefontaine, September 2026 – As the French national team gathers at Clairefontaine for their first training camp under new coach Zinedine Zidane, tensions might be brewing between two of its biggest stars, Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. Although the two have been close friends since their teenage years, recent discussions about the prestigious Ballon d’Or have introduced a potential rift.

Mbappé’s Comments on Dembélé Spark Reaction

The controversy stems from an interview Kylian Mbappé gave to a prominent sports publication, where he acknowledged Ousmane Dembélé as “always a talented player.” However, he also emphasized that he, Mbappé, was considered “the chosen one” from the beginning. This statement prompted a swift and pointed response from Dembélé, aired on a sports network shortly after a Ligue 1 match between Brest and PSG, where the latter narrowly won 1-0.

Dembélé’s Perspective on the Ballon d’Or

Before his pointed response to Mbappé, Dembélé had named his friend as one of the top three contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or. The PSG striker was listed alongside Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Harry Kane, a diplomatic move to avoid upsetting anyone. However, Dembélé’s stance has shifted, in tandem with his club’s evolving communication strategy.

Kvaratskhelia Emerges as Dembélé’s Top Pick

In a recent interview, Dembélé stated unequivocally that “Kvara” is the sole favorite for the Ballon d’Or. He expressed his admiration for Kvaratskhelia, saying, “I would be very happy for him because he deserves it. His season was exceptional, and for me, he’s the best player in the world. That’s why he should win the Ballon d’Or.” With these words, Dembélé has made his stance clear, potentially adding another layer to the dynamic between him and Mbappé as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.