Lionel Messi topped China’s Ballon d’Or vote as scrutiny of Kylian Mbappe intensified

Lionel Messi was the top choice of China’s sole representative on the Ballon d’Or voting panel, with French forward Kylian Mbappe ranked fifth as criticism of the Real Madrid player grew in China.

Lu Ming, editor-in-chief of Titan Sports, placed Messi ahead of France forward Ousmane Dembele and Spain midfielder Rodri in his assessment. England striker Harry Kane finished fourth, one place above Mbappe.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Lu Ming selected Messi because of the Argentina captain’s influence during the World Cup. Messi scored eight goals and supplied four assists in the tournament, while also playing a decisive role in taking Argentina to the final.

Dembele earned Lu Ming’s second-place vote after combining individual excellence with team honours. Rodri was ranked third because of his central contribution to the Spain national team.

Mbappe facing criticism in China

The Chinese journalist’s decision to place Messi first came as Mbappe faced increasing criticism in China following the spread of a video online. The footage showed the Real Madrid forward reacting to satirical clips portraying him as a dictator, alongside a reference to Chinese leader Mao Zedong.

Mbappe later issued a public apology, but the fallout extended beyond the player’s public image. Several Chinese brands ended their partnerships with him, while local media continued to criticise his conduct.

Lu Ming said his decision to rank Mbappe fifth was based on sporting considerations rather than the controversy. He pointed to the absence of major trophies from Mbappe’s achievements during the season under review, despite the forward’s impressive individual statistics.

Voting for the award closed on 28 September, before the ongoing dispute between Mbappe and China began.

Mbappe ultimately finished second in this year’s Ballon d’Or standings, behind winner Harry Kane.