Kylian Mbappe sent Lionel Messi reality check by Marseille rival ahead of Real Madrid's Champions League opener

Ahead of their trip to Santiago Bernabeu, Marseille captain Balerdi has expressed his belief that Messi will continue to remain the best player in the world until he announces his retirement. Balerdi does, however, also admire Mbappe's qualities and has been particularly impressed by his performances in Real Madrid colours this year.

Ahead of the game, Balerdi was asked if Mbappe is the best player in the world, to which he replied: "Until Messi retires, Messi will be the best player in the world. But I’m sure Kylian is one of the best in the world, too. He’s been proving it for years, and this year he’s also at a great level."

The Marseille skipper also hinted that Roberto De Zerbi's side will have a plan to keep Mbappe and the rest of Madrid's star players under wraps, as he added: "If you look at the names on Real Madrid’s roster, it’s impressive. But we have to work the same way. The players are top quality, but we have to do what we do every weekend: stay focused. Any opportunity can change the course of the match. We’re ready to play against these great players. It’s a challenge, and we have to be smart."

Following their Champions League opener against Marseille on Tuesday, Mbappe will be back in action for Madrid against Espanyol on September 20 in a La Liga clash. Xabi Alonso's side are currently top of the table with four wins from their opening four games of the new season, but cannot afford any slip-ups with arch-rivals and reigning champions Barcelona only two points behind them in second.