✅ Why Mbappé should be in the Ballon d'Or conversation:
🏆 Golden Boot winner at Euro qualifiers & 🏆 Pichichi in La Liga (or Ligue 1, depending on the season wrap-up).
⚽ 45 goals + 🅰 7 assists in 62 games – an elite output.
Led PSG (or France) to deep runs in major tournaments.
Consistency across all competitions, both club and international.
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🤔 Why he might be flying under the radar:
No Champions League title, which often weighs heavily in voting.
The spotlight has been heavily on others:
Jude Bellingham for Real Madrid’s CL & La Liga run.
Vinícius Jr., who was decisive in the Champions League.
Messi, due to his Copa America or Ballon d'Or legacy.
His dominance is expected, so it’s less "headline-grabbing."
🔍 Verdict:
Mbappé has had a Ballon d’Or-worthy year statistically, but without a UCL or major international trophy in 2025, he might be overlooked in favor of title-winning stars.
Still, top 3 is well within reach. If he shines at Euro 2024 (or 2025 Copa-style international tournaments), it could change the narrative fast.