Lionel Messi & Kylian Mbappe comparisons rubbished by Hugo Lloris as France legend backs 'unique' Inter Miami superstar to lead Argentina at 2026 World Cup

Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi is the most decorated player of all-time and got the better of former Paris Saint-Germain team-mate Mbappe when adding a World Cup crown to his historic trophy collection in 2022. The Frenchman already has a winners’ medal from that competition to his name having emerged triumphant in 2018.

Mbappe is now enhancing his reputation as another ‘Galactico’ at Real Madrid, with 33 goals recorded in his debut campaign with the Blancos. He has eyes on his own Golden Ball, which would help to cement a legacy among the greats.

Fellow countryman Lloris has told La Nacion when asked if Mbappe occupies the same talent pool as Messi: “Is Mbappe is similar to Messi? No, Messi is unique. It is absolutely impossible to compare him to anyone.”

Lloris added on Messi helping to defend a global title in 2026: “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 of course we want to continue to see him play. I have a lot of admiration for Leo. For me he is 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.”

Messi is now plying his club trade in the United States for Inter Miami. Lloris is also in MLS, with LAFC, and added on the impact that a South American superstar has had on domestic football in America: “I think MLS is evolving year after year, improving and getting stronger. Obviously, since Messi arrived in Miami, the league has started to gain much more exposure around the world, and that's incredible for its image.

“Plus, it's becoming more and more interesting to compete in MLS because very important figures, like [Luis] Suarez, Jordi Alba, and so many others, bring their experience and quality with them. On the other hand, I want to say that I'm impressed: there are many players that I didn't know when I arrived, and they are truly very good and talented. Surely, in the future, they'll be able to play in Europe. So far, it's been a very good experience for me.”

Lloris is readying himself for another meeting with Messi as LAFC are set to face Inter Miami in the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final at BMO Stadium in California on Wednesday.