Real Madrid and Germany legend Toni Kroos has delivered a startling verdict on the upcoming Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, bypassing former teammate Kylian Mbappe and declaring Paris Saint-Germain attacker Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as his undisputed pick for football’s ultimate individual prize. The 36-year-old midfielder asserted that Kvaratskhelia stands out as the finest performer in the game today, despite stiff competition from global icons such as Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi, Rodri, and Jude Bellingham.
Explaining his stance, Kroos highlighted the contrast between international displays and sustained excellence at the absolute top level of club football. “The Ballon d’Or should go to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia,” Kroos stated. “He probably won’t win, but he’s number one without hesitation. The best World Cup players—Messi, Jude, Mbappe, Rodri—had average club seasons. Kvara was the best player from currently the best club in the world.” Kroos’ endorsement underscores a growing debate around how international tournaments weigh against domestic and continental club achievements ahead of the ceremony towards the end of October.
Kroos’ refusal to back Mbappe comes despite the French forward’s extraordinary trajectory. Having left PSG after finishing as Ligue 1’s top scorer for six consecutive seasons, Mbappe completed a high-profile free transfer to Real Madrid following the Spanish giant’s 15th UEFA Champions League title victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley. The 2018 World Cup winner—who became the second teenager after Pele to score in a World Cup final—quickly left his footprint in Spain, breaking Real Madrid’s club record for most goals scored in a debut season. Yet, despite his rapid adaptation alongside Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, Mbappe remains among an elite group—alongside Neymar, Robert Lewandowski, Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, Andres Iniesta, and David Beckham—who have never claimed the golden ball.
The praise for Kvaratskhelia highlights the ongoing evolution in Paris, where PSG continues to reshape its identity. While legendary figures like Marquinhos remain established pillars of the club’s history and former stars such as Neymar left indelible memories of raw talent, current focal points have emerged across the pitch. Midfield hub Vitinha recently matched Xavi by completing 141 passes in a Champions League final, forming the bedrock of a side Kroos considers the planet’s premier outfit. By placing Kvaratskhelia above both established icons and celebrated teammates like Bellingham—who adjusted his midfield role to accommodate Mbappe—Kroos has redefined the conversation surrounding football’s highest individual honor.
