2026 Ballon d'Or: Tensions arise between Mbappe, Dembele

Growing tensions are emerging between French teammates Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele ahead of the 2026 Ballon d'Or. Mbappe recently stated that Dembele, the current winner, was the 'chosen one', prompting a response from Dembele, who insisted he has always worked for his achievements. Although surprised by Dembele's outburst, Mbappe will not respond publicly. Both players are on the 30-man shortlist of nominees, with the winner to be announced on October 26.