‘Messi is the best’ – Mbappe hails Argentinian legend’s longevity | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappe hailed Lionel Messi’s longevity after the Argentina legend scored a hat-trick in his first game of the 2026 World Cup at the age of 38.

Messi helped his side to a 3-0 win over Algeria in their opening clash, and sits joint top of the Golden Boot race, just ahead of France captain Mbappe, who scored twice in their opening game against Senegal.

Asked about the race to be the top scorer, with Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Messi and himself all in the early running, Mbappe says it is clear his former PSG team-mate Messi is the best player of the four mentioned.

“The best of the four players? Lionel Messi, it’s clear,” Mbappe said. “He is the best in the world, with Cristiano (Ronaldo). It’s clear.

“He’s shown over 15 years he has an amazing quality. I just try to show what I can do and show my quality on the biggest stage and helping my team to win another World Cup.

“For the rest, it’s a debate for the people, for the journalists and for the fans. It’s good to debate about the players but for me it’s not a question, it’s just about how I can help my team against Iraq and how I can bring the trophy home in July.”