In London, with the Ballon d’Or gala little more than a month away, the argument around football’s individual prize is beginning to stretch from stadium corridors to television studios. As of 21 September, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane are widely viewed as the leading three contenders, although there is no settled favourite among them.
Samuel Umtiti, once a Barcelona defender for six seasons, has made his own preference clear. Working as a commentator before the Madrid derby between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, the former France international backed Mbappé for the award.
“I’ll tell you who I think is the best,” Umtiti said. “Kylian has had an incredible season: plenty of goals for his club and for the national team as well. There are many candidates. Bellingham too, considering what he has done with his national side. But I am French, so I am choosing Kylian.”
His remarks have prompted a sharp reaction online, particularly because Yamal was not included in the names Umtiti raised despite the Barcelona connection. The mention of Jude Bellingham, a Real Madrid player, alongside Mbappé has added to the frustration among sections of Barcelona’s support, who expected the former Camp Nou defender to show greater backing for the young winger.
The final decision, however, will not be settled by old club loyalties or national allegiance. London will host the ceremony next month with Yamal, Mbappé and Kane at the centre of a contest that still appears unusually open.
