Kylian Mbappé: From Young Champion to One of Football’s Greatest
With record-breaking goals, historic knockout performances, and final appearances, Mbappé is rewriting France’s World Cup history.
FRANCE — Kylian Mbappé rose to fame at the age of 19 when he scored two vital goals to help France qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Eight years later, the French captain has already scored numerous records to rival many football legends who are considered the best World Cup players of all time.
Kylian Mbappé scored 20 World Cup goals on his way to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 27-year-old scored one of the most astonishing feats in the tournament as he netted the 20th goal during the 2026 World Cup.
According to FIFA, Mbappé has recorded the most goals (12) in World Cup knockout matches, set the record for the most wins (15) in France’s World Cup history, and tied the record for most goal involvements in two World Cups since 1966. Mbappé is a hero in the 2026 World Cup and the hype around the young French striker, who dazzled fans with his goal-scoring abilities during France’s 2022 campaign.
The phenomenal rise of Mbappé has stunned the football world, raising debates about his position among the football legends as one of the best World Cup players of all time. The 27-year-old has the potential to rival the likes of Pele, Ronaldo Nazário, Miroslav Klose, and Lionel Messi, inspired by his astonishing stats.
Mbappé looks destined to be among the best World Cup players of all time after his sensational displays in the 2022 and 2026 campaigns. France manager Didier Deschamps has praised Mbappé’s maturity on the pitch as he continues to lead by example with his performances.
French professional footballer Kylian Mbappé Kylian Mbappé celebrating a goal while playing for the France national team. in United States on July 9, 2026 at 2:37 PM. © Zenger.News
“Kylian has been amazing with his displays in the tournament, setting the standards and inspiring us to follow his lead,” Deschamps said. Meanwhile, several pundits and football analysts say that, despite his heroic displays, Mbappé still needs to win another World Cup to be considered one of the game’s greatest.
“Winning the tournament as France captain would do the trick, and until then, we must enjoy his phenomenal exploits and applaud his virtuoso achievements,” said Julien Laurens, a sports journalist. Mbappé has been reluctant to join the list of footballers vying for the title of best World Cup player of all time.
He feels that he needs to win more titles with France before thinking of individual accolades. “I am not thinking of being in the race for the best World Cup player of all time,” said Mbappé after France’s latest victory. “My main aim is to help France win more titles.” It remains to be seen whether Mbappé will win the coveted prize and silence critics who still feel that he needs to achieve more before being considered one of the best World Cup players of all time.
The French striker’s phenomenal stats, together with his maturity and record-breaking performances, will undoubtedly place him among the best World Cup players of all time.