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Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe enters the new Champions League season with heightened expectations for the Ballon d'Or, following a historic goal-scoring run at the World Cup. Commentators and fans have increasingly linked his performances to a potential award this season. Mbappe opened the scoring as Real Madrid beat Inter Milan 2-1 in their Champions League opener under manager Jose Mourinho, though the performance was not fully convincing. Separately, the official 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist was announced, naming Mbappe among the favourites alongside Ousmane Dembele, Lamine Yamal and Harry Kane, intensifying debate over who will win the award.