Former France international Hugo Lloris has shut down any comparisons between Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi, insisting that the Argentine is “unique”.
Undoubtedly one of the best players in football history, Mbappe had enjoyed huge success since he rose to the limelight as a youngster with Monaco. The Frenchman has enjoyed a trophy-laden career with the likes of AS Monaco, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid – as well as lifting the 2018 World Cup with France.
However, Mbappe’s compatriot and former national team-mate Lloris believes that he 26-year-old cannot be compared to footballing great, Messi, who shared the pitch with Mbappe for two seasons at PSG between 2021 and 2023.
Kylian Mbappe celebrates a goal with Lionel Messi (left) during their time together at Paris Saint-Germain. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)
Speaking to La Nacion, the shot-stopper said: “Is Mbappé similar to Messi? No, Messi is unique. It’s absolutely impossible to compare him to anyone. I don’t see Argentina without Messi in the next World Cup. I think it will be with Messi.
“He still plays and enjoys football. It’s his decision, but we want to see him play. I have a lot of admiration for Leo. For me, he’s at the top of the list of the best players, without a doubt.
“I’m from the generation that was able to watch and play against Leo.” Elsewhere, Lloris also praised the MLS for being able to draw in big-name stars like Messi – who joined Inter Miami after his sweet stint with PSG two years ago.
The 38-year-old added: “I think the MLS is evolving year after year; it is improving and growing stronger. Obviously, since Messi’s arrival in Miami, the league has started to get a lot more exposure all over the world, and that is incredible for its image.
“Also, it is becoming more interesting to compete in the MLS because very important figures like [Luis] Suárez, Jordi Alba and many others bring their experience and quality with them. On the other hand, I want to say that I am impressed: there are many players who, when I arrived, I did not know, and they are really very good and talented.
“Surely, in time, they will be able to play in Europe. So far, it has been a very good experience for me.”
With eight Ballon d’Ors to his name, as well as a World Cup with his native Argentina, Messi is arguably the greatest football player in history.
Currently 37 years old, Messi still continues to impress in the MLS while showing no signs of slowing down any time soon.
