Mbappe names Messi the best footballer in the world

France captain has once again shown his admiration for football legend , declaring the Argentine superstar the best player in the world despite ongoing comparisons with some of football’s biggest names.

Speaking during a press conference at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Mbappe was asked to compare himself with Messi, and —three of the most prolific forwards in modern football.

Rather than fueling the debate, the French captain gave a straightforward answer.

“Clearly, Lionel Messi is the best,” Mbappe said. “He belongs among the greatest players ever, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.”

The comments quickly attracted attention across the football world, especially as fans continue to debate which of the current generation’s stars deserves the title of football’s finest player.

Mbappe praised Messi’s remarkable consistency and longevity, arguing that the Argentine icon has already proven his greatness over an extraordinary career spanning more than a decade and a half.

“He has shown for 15 years that he possesses an incredible level of quality,” Mbappe said. “The rest is simply discussion among journalists and supporters.”

The French forward’s remarks carry extra significance given his experience of playing alongside Messi at club level and competing against him on some of football’s biggest stages. Their partnership and rivalry have made them two of the most recognizable figures in the sport.

The debate has gained fresh momentum during the FIFA World Cup 2026, where several elite strikers have made impressive starts. Messi announced his arrival in spectacular fashion by scoring a hat-trick against Algeria, immediately reminding the world why he remains one of football’s most feared players.

Meanwhile, England captain Harry Kane and Norway star Erling Haaland each scored two goals in their opening matches, while Mbappe himself also found the net to help France begin their campaign on a positive note.

Despite the strong performances from football’s current stars, Mbappe’s endorsement of Messi suggests that experience, consistency, and a legacy built over many years still set the Argentine apart.

As the World Cup progresses and the race for football’s biggest prize intensifies, the spotlight will remain firmly fixed on Messi, Mbappe, Haaland, and Kane. Yet for the France captain, the debate appears settled.

When asked who stands above the rest, Mbappe had no hesitation in naming Lionel Messi as football’s benchmark and one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.