Chelsea and France star N’Golo Kante has played down his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or despite being tipped to win the foremost individual award.
Kante delivered some eye-catching performances in the knock-out round of this seasons Champions League which helped Chelsea win the title for the second time in the club’s history.
The former Leicester City star became a frontrunner for the award after being named man of the match in both legs of the semi-final against Real Madrid and then again in the 1-0 win over Manchester City in the final.
“It’s a bit early to talk about it now. We are in the middle of the year; there are six months left, and lots of matches and competitions to play. It’s not necessary to say today that I deserve it,” he told a press conference.
“A few years ago I was in the top 10. It was the first time and it was nice. But winning it is another story.
“It’s a great individual reward. I see it as the result of a good season for the players. It’s not a goal I’m working on. Those who won it in the past are players who have achieved great things during their career.”
Speaking about his future at Chelsea, the 29-year-old defensive midfielder – who has two years remaining in his current contract, insisted he does not wish to think about it.
“I’ve been at Chelsea for five years,” he said. “I have had many good years there and hope to have many more. The Champions League is the climax of five years spent at the club. My future is not something I consider. I have two years of contract left and I feel good there.”
Kante alongside his Chelsea team mates Oliver Giroud and Kurt Zouma, received a warm welcome to the French national team preparing for Euro 2022 last week after their exploits in the Champions League.
