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Raúl Asencio Backs Kylian Mbappé for Ballon d’Or Award
Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio has thrown his support behind teammate Kylian Mbappé to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or, insisting that the French forward deserves the individual award ahead of the other nominees.
Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, Asencio was asked about the players competing for this year’s Ballon d’Or and made his preference clear. The young defender believes Mbappé stands above the other contenders and deserves recognition for his performances.
“Kylian Mbappé deserves the Ballon d’Or, he’s the best among the nominees,” Asencio told AS.
Mbappé has continued to attract significant attention since joining Real Madrid, with his performances for the Spanish giants placing him among the leading candidates for football’s most prestigious individual prize. His goalscoring ability and consistency have made him one of the most influential players in the squad.
For Asencio, however, Mbappé’s case goes beyond his reputation. The defender believes the Frenchman’s performances on the pitch have been strong enough to separate him from the other players included on the shortlist.
The Ballon d’Or is awarded annually to the player judged to have produced the best individual performances over the relevant period. While goals and statistics remain important factors, voters also consider a player’s influence, consistency, achievements and performances in major competitions.
Mbappé has already established himself as one of the most dangerous forwards in world football. His pace, finishing and ability to create opportunities have made him a constant threat to opposing defences, while his experience at the highest level has helped strengthen his case for individual honours.
His move to Real Madrid was one of the biggest transfers in recent football history, bringing together a player who had already achieved major success with one of the biggest clubs in Europe. Since arriving in Madrid, expectations surrounding the France international have remained extremely high.
Asencio, who has emerged as an important defensive option for Real Madrid, has also had the opportunity to work closely with Mbappé. His endorsement therefore offers an insight into the level of admiration the forward has earned from his teammates inside the dressing room.
The Ballon d’Or race is expected to generate plenty of debate, particularly because several elite players have strong arguments for winning the award. Fans, former players, coaches and football experts often disagree over whether goals, trophies, individual brilliance or performances in decisive matches should carry the greatest weight.
For Real Madrid supporters, having Mbappé among the leading contenders provides another reason to follow the final stages of the award race closely. The club has a long history of producing and developing Ballon d’Or winners, and Mbappé will be hoping to add his name to that distinguished list.
Asencio’s comments also underline the confidence that exists within the Real Madrid squad regarding Mbappé’s quality. The young defender has publicly identified his teammate as the strongest candidate among the nominees, making it clear where his vote would go if he had the final decision.
Ultimately, the Ballon d’Or winner will be determined by the official voting process, rather than the opinion of any individual player. However, Asencio’s backing highlights the belief within Real Madrid that Mbappé has done enough to be considered the best player among this year’s nominees.
With the award race attracting attention from across the football world, Mbappé will now have the opportunity to let his performances continue to make the argument for him. Whether he ultimately lifts the Ballon d’Or remains to be seen, but Asencio has made his choice clear: Kylian Mbappé is the player he believes deserves the prize.
