Mbappe tipped as a better Ballon d’Or candidate to Yamal

Former Ballon d’Or winner George Weah has declared that France captain Kylian Mbappe is “far superior” to Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, dismissing comparisons between the two stars as the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters its knockout stages. 

The Liberian legend praised Mbappe’s consistency and world-class ability following another standout display for France.

Weah made the comments after watching Mbappe score twice in France’s convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32.

The former AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain striker described the Real Madrid forward as “a phenomenon” and one of the game’s elite goalscorers, highlighting his continued influence on the international stage.

Despite the growing excitement surrounding 18-year-old Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, Weah believes it is too early to compare him with the French captain. 

He acknowledged Yamal’s immense potential but stressed that the youngster is still developing, while Mbappe has already established himself among football’s greatest players through years of elite performances.

Weah urged patience with the Spanish international, expressing hope that Yamal continues his impressive development without being burdened by comparisons. 

He argued that Mbappe’s achievements, consistency, and impact at the highest level place him in a different category, making direct comparisons between the pair premature.

Mbappe’s performances at the World Cup continue to strengthen his reputation. 

The 27-year-old has scored six goals in the tournament so far, moving level in the Golden Boot race with Lionel Messi. 

Against Sweden, he came close to completing a hat-trick after striking the post and having another goal ruled out for offside in a dominant individual display.

With 18 World Cup goals to his name, Mbappe is now just one behind Messi’s all-time tournament scoring record, adding further intrigue to the race between two of football’s biggest stars. 

France and Spain could also be on course to meet in the semi-finals, setting up a potential showdown between Mbappe and Yamal should both nations progress.