Kylian Mbappé has been crowned French Footballer of the Year for the 2023-24 season, as announced by France Football. This remarkable achievement adds yet another accolade to his illustrious career.
The Real Madrid forward narrowly edged out Arsenal’s William Saliba in a fiercely contested voting, winning by a margin of just five points.
This marks Mbappé’s fourth time receiving the prestigious award, solidifying his status as one of the world’s finest football talents.
Stellar Performances at PSG and Beyond
A farewell season to remember
Although Mbappé moved to Real Madrid in the summer, his contributions to PSG during the 2023-24 season remain unforgettable. Scoring an incredible 52 goals across all competitions, Mbappé was pivotal in PSG’s successful defense of the Ligue 1 title and their triumph in the Coupe de France.
Leadership on the international stage
As captain of the French national team, Mbappé guided Les Bleus to the semifinals of Euro 2024, where they were eventually defeated by Spain. His leadership, both on and off the pitch, has been a defining characteristic throughout his career.
Transition to Real Madrid
A sensational start in La Liga
Joining Real Madrid on a free transfer, Mbappé has made a strong impact in La Liga. In just 22 appearances, he has scored 12 goals and provided two assists, showcasing his immense talent on the global stage.
Challenges ahead
Despite a promising start, Mbappé’s journey at Madrid hit a hurdle with a recent injury during a 3-2 win against Atalanta. This setback will sideline him for the upcoming La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano and raises concerns about his participation in the Intercontinental Cup final on December 18 in Doha.
Competitive Voting and Surprising Exclusions
A tight race with Saliba
The battle for the French Footballer of the Year award was intensely close, with Mbappé narrowly securing 56 points to Saliba’s 51. Saliba’s outstanding performances for Arsenal, including a vital role in their Premier League title challenge and a spot in the Premier League Team of the Season, made him a strong contender.
Unexpected omissions
The voting process had its share of surprises. Former teammates like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante omitted Mbappé from their top three picks, opting instead for players like Eduardo Camavinga, Bradley Barcola, and Jules Koundé.
Looking Ahead
Mbappé’s vision for the future
Despite the recent injury, Mbappé’s future at Real Madrid looks promising. His unmatched skills, coupled with his leadership qualities, position him as one of football’s most valuable assets.
A legacy in the making
Winning the French Footballer of the Year award for the fourth time underscores Mbappé’s remarkable talent and dedication to the sport. As he embarks on this new chapter with Real Madrid, the French superstar remains a beacon of excellence in both French and international football.
