Harry Kane is the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or at the ceremony in London on Monday. England will host the 70th edition of the award for the first time in its history.
The 33-year-old striker recorded 73 goals across 65 appearances for his club and country during the previous season. Kane said, "I'd love to be able to achieve something like that. I would be a massive milestone in my career."
The player noted that his family would prefer to know the results, adding that the process is very stressful for everyone. Kane observed that organisers likely keep the winners secret to ensure all the big names attend the event, which increases viewership.
Lamine Yamal, who is 19 years old, believes he and Kylian Mbappe are the two best players in the world. Yamal stated, "I honestly think that, as the best in the world, maybe there are two of us, and this year I would deserve it because of what I've won."
Kylian Mbappe, aged 27, has scored 10 goals in World Cup history. Mbappe said, "Being the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, overtaking all the great legends in the history of the sport in the most important tournament there is, is something that really stands out."
Mbappe also joked, "Who am I voting for? Myself." A group of 100 football journalists from top-ranked nations will cast votes for their top 10 players from a 30-man shortlist.
Alexia Putellas is the frontrunner to secure the women's award for a third time. Ewa Pajor scored 11 Champions League goals in Barca's most recent victory.
