Mbappé has his say on the Cristiano vs Messi debate
The French forward spoke about Messi’s goalscoring record in the World Cup, but not without a mention for his Portuguese rival.
Mbappé knew it. Although to be fair to us mortals, it didn’t serve up the hottest of hot takes. No flaming-hot spice mixed in with reeking California Reaper salsa, instead more of a cool mayonnaise and cucumber sandwich. “I already knew Messi was going to keep scoring goals,” he revealed. Media training 1-0 Media.
Messi’s goals have been the attacking highlight of the World Cup so far. When not talking about the sensational performances from many relatively unknown goalkeepers - Vozinha (Cape Verde), Room (Curaçao), Beiranvand (Iran) - we’ve been gushing over Messi golazos. The Argentine has shot to the top of the Golden Boot race, out in front with 5 from just 2 games played, and was even able to miss a penalty before breaking the all-time top scorer record, against Austria.
“He always does [score],” explained Kylian, who sat 3 goals ahead of the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner ahead of his second appearance at the tournament. “He’s ahead of me and I’m behind him. I’ll keep scoring to help my national team go as far as possible.”
@asusaofficial MESSI VS CR7: MBAPPÉ CHOOSES The French forward was asked about Messi’s record at the World Cup. This was his response… #messi #mbappe #cristianoronaldo #cr7 #soccer
♬ original sound - elconejoedits
“It’s clear that Messi is the best in the world”
Messi’s hat-trick against Algeria was only the latest exposition of his extraordinary talent that he has shown for over 20 years. “It’s clear that Messi is the best in the world," Mbappé explained, wading plum-deep into the debate that has enveloped said double-decade career.
“And so is [Portugal captain] Cristiano [Ronaldo],” the France captain added, jumping out of that now neck-high water as quick as a flash.
“For 16 years, he [Messi] has shown his extraordinary talent,” Mbappé continued. “I’m just trying to do what I know how to do: show my talent on the biggest stage possible and help my national team. When you score goals, you’ve got a better chance of going far, and I want to win the World Cup.”
100 - Kylian Mbappé (27 ans et 184 jours) en équipe de France :
— OptaJean (@OptaJean) June 22, 2026
Sélections : 100 (10e)
Sélections en match compétitif : 75 (4e)
Buts : 58 (🥇)
Assists : 34 (🥇 depuis au moins 1966)
Capitanats : 30 (6e)
Panthéon. pic.twitter.com/K6Af1ifw7Z
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