Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe has picked himself as the most deserving player to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or award for the year.

The France international believes he deserves to win the award this year despite competition from the likes of Lionel Messi and Manchester City’s goal machine, Erling Haaland.

Mbappe led the French national team to the FIFA World Cup final and won the Golden Boot in the process after scoring a hat-trick against Argentina, only to be pipped on penalties.

The Frenchman also helped PSG win the Ligue 1 title this season.

Speaking with French television network TF1, Kylian Mbappe said his Ballon d’Or chances are high.

“The Ballon d’Or? It’s always difficult to talk about an individual trophy because you have to put yourself forward,” he said.

“Do I deserve the Ballon d’Or? With the new criteria, what counts? Catching the eye, scoring goals, and making an impact? I think I fit those criteria. I’d say yes, but it’s the people who vote, and I’m always optimistic.”

The 23-year-old scored 41 goals and provided 10 assists in 40 appearances for PSG in the recently concluded 2022–23 season.