The report says Mourinho argued there are “dois, três ou quatro atletas nesse patamar” and that “estão aqui,” before singling out Mbappe as the standout on individual merit. It is an argument many in football will recognise.
That matters because the Ballon d’Or has never been a purely statistical prize, nor a purely emotional one. It lives in the grey area between sustained excellence and defining moments.
Mourinho’s comments also tap into a broader frustration around individual awards in a team sport. A player can be extraordinary without lifting the biggest trophy. Another can ride a brilliant collective season and suddenly become the favourite.
The report says Mourinho underlined that point by invoking legends who endured beyond silverware cycles: Maradona, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo Nazario, Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi and Zidane. That is the heart of his case. Greatness, in his view, should still look like greatness when the confetti is gone.
The timing is sharp too. The update says Mbappe had just scored three goals in Real Madrid’s 4-1 win over Real Sociedad, another reminder that his candidacy is built on star power as much as end product.
The next step is obvious: watch how the conversation shifts as the season gathers pace. If Mbappe keeps producing nights that feel bigger than the trophy count, Mourinho’s argument will only get louder.