The update credits Kane with a central role in England’s progress and says he has been more influential than many of the tournament’s leading forwards.
“They've had some big, tough matches and Kane is one player who delivers in tough situations,” Bhutia said.
That distinction matters in a knockout tournament. Goals remain vital, but the strongest individual claims often belong to players who decide difficult games, lead their team through pressure and remain effective when opponents restrict space.
Kane’s award prospects would appear to grow significantly if England reach the latter stages. A deep run would give him more opportunities to add to his scoring record and strengthen the argument that he has been the tournament’s most complete forward.
Mbappe’s challenge is formidable. France are regarded by Bhutia as the tournament’s most attacking team, with Ousmane Dembele and other dangerous forwards capable of creating space around their star player.
That support could give Mbappe an advantage over Lionel Messi, whose influence remains immense but whose Argentina side may not offer the same depth in the final third. Bhutia considers both players to have performed strongly, while still believing Kane’s influence has been more decisive so far.
He also identifies France, Argentina, Spain and England as the leading contenders, with Spain viewed as a potential problem for France because of their ability to control the tempo. Brazil, meanwhile, are described as a dark horse rather than an overwhelming favourite.
The next knockout rounds should settle whether Kane’s leadership or Mbappe’s explosiveness becomes the defining individual story. If England and France continue advancing, the award race may stay unresolved until the final weekend.