Kylian Mbappe, the prodigious French footballer, is set to celebrate his 26th birthday later this year, prompting reflections on his achievements thus far. However, comparisons to Argentine superstar Lionel Messi have become a recurrent theme of discussion among football enthusiasts and pundits. While Mbappe’s career path has taken a different route compared to Messi’s at the same age, his individual achievements and potential continue to captivate the football world.

With zero UEFA Champions League titles, Ballon d’Or awards, and European Golden Boots to his nаme by the end of this year, Mbappe’s trajectory diverges from that of Messi, who had already amassed numerous accolades by the same age. However, it is important to remember that each player’s journey is unique, and Mbappe’s story is still unfolding.

At 26, Messi had already established himself as a key figure for FC Barcelona, where he had won multiple domestic and international titles, including the UEFA Champions League and Ballon d’Or awards. His incredible performances had earned him widespread acclaim and cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.