Former France striker Jean-Pierre Papin has snubbed Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe as he named the player he wants to win the Ballon d’Or this year.

Papin identified Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane as his preferred candidate, while also recognising the achievements of Mbappe and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal.

“I have a slight preference for Harry Kane, but Kylian Mbappe has also had a very good season, as has Lamine Yamal,” Papin said, as quoted by SPORT.

“I am afraid that once Lamine Yamal gets his hands on it, he will keep it for several years, because he is so incredible every day.

“Every time I watch him play, I get the impression that he invents something. Lamine could win it too, but I would have a slight preference for Harry Kane.”

Kane, Mbappe and Yamal are among the top contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or which the winner will be announced later this month in London.