Kylian Mbappé has never hidden his admiration for the great figures who defined an era in world football. This time, the French forward was asked who he considers the greatest players in World Cup history, and he made it clear that, in his view, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo occupy a privileged place above everyone else.

His comments come at a time when all three players remain key figures at the 2026 World Cup and continue to add to their remarkable international achievements.

Messi and a legacy strengthened by the World Cup

Lionel Messi’s legacy reached a new dimension after winning the World Cup with Argentina at Qatar 2022. The Albiceleste captain completed one of the few achievements that had been missing from an already extraordinary career.

In addition to lifting the trophy, Messi became one of the players with the most appearances in World Cup history and continues to extend several records during the 2026 edition.

His impact on the tournament has been decisive across different generations, strengthening what many consider the strongest case in the debate over the greatest footballer of all time.

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to make history

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy the passage of time. Portugal’s captain arrived at the 2026 World Cup still playing an important role for his national team while adding new milestones to his historic career.

The Portuguese forward is already recognized for having appeared and scored in multiple World Cup editions, as well as becoming one of the greatest international football icons of all time.

His longevity and ability to continue competing at the highest level were among the qualities Mbappé highlighted when placing him among the best players the tournament has ever seen.

A generation united by three giants

Although Mbappé represents the present and future of world football, the French star made it clear that there is still enormous respect for the players who dominated the game over the past decade.

With Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo still active on the World Cup stage, the France forward acknowledges that both established a standard that is difficult to match. While continuing to build his own legacy, he had no hesitation in identifying who, in his opinion, are the true icons of World Cup football.

Mbappé’s admiration reflects the respect that exists between generations and confirms the special place that Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo hold in World Cup history.