African football legend George Weah has urged fans to stop comparing Kylian Mbappe with Spain youngster Lamine Yamal, insisting the France captain has already reached a level few players in world football can match.
The former Liberia, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan striker made the comments after another outstanding display from Mbappe at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the French forward continues to lead his country’s charge towards the latter stages of the tournament.
Mbappe has now scored six goals in four matches, drawing level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot.
His latest contribution came in France’s commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden, with the Real Madrid star scoring twice to help Les Bleus secure a place in the Round of 16.
Weah praises Mbappe’s brilliance
Weah, the only African player to win the Ballon d’Or, described Mbappe as one of the defining footballers of the modern era.
Speaking on El Chiringuito, the Liberian icon said:
“Mbappe is a phenomenon. He is truly an excellent player and a brilliant goalscorer.”
The France captain has once again demonstrated why he is regarded among the world’s elite, combining clinical finishing, explosive pace and leadership throughout the tournament.
His performances have been central to France’s impressive World Cup campaign as they pursue another global title after lifting the trophy in 2018 and reaching the final in 2022.
Yamal deserves time to develop
Weah was also asked about comparisons between Mbappe and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The Barcelona winger returned from injury shortly before the tournament and has gradually worked his way into Spain’s starting lineup after featuring as a substitute against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia before starting the victory over Uruguay.
Yamal also scored his first World Cup goal against Saudi Arabia, further highlighting the immense talent that has made him one of Europe’s brightest young prospects.
However, Weah believes the 18-year-old should be allowed to continue his development without being measured against a player already operating at the highest level.
According to RMC Sport, Weah said:
“Lamine Yamal is still young and should not be compared to Kylian Mbappe. Mbappe is a phenomenon, while Yamal is still growing.”
Mbappe chasing more World Cup history
Mbappe’s remarkable scoring form has once again placed him among the favourites to finish as the tournament’s leading scorer.
Already level with Lionel Messi on six goals, the French captain continues to strengthen his reputation as one of the greatest performers in World Cup history.
France remain heavily reliant on his ability to produce decisive moments in the biggest matches, with Mbappe once again delivering when it matters most.
Weah calls for patience
The former Ballon d’Or winner stressed that his comments should not be interpreted as criticism of Yamal, but rather as recognition of the different stages of their careers.
He concluded:
“I hope Lamine Yamal continues his professional development, but there is no comparison between him and Mbappe. Everyone knows that Mbappe is on a completely different level.”
For Weah, the message is straightforward.
Yamal possesses enormous potential and could become one of the world’s best players in the future.
Mbappe, however, has already established himself among football’s elite and at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he continues to prove it with every performance.
