‘Reminds me of myself at my peak’ – Brazil legend Ronaldo hails Kylian Mbappe after explosive World Cup start with France

Kylian Mbappe has received one of the greatest compliments imaginable after Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario compared the France superstar to himself at his peak following an electric start to the 2026 World Cup.

The Real Madrid forward has already established himself as one of the standout performers of the tournament, registering four goals and two assists in France’s opening three matches to reinforce his status as one of world football’s elite talents.

Ronaldo sees himself in Mbappe

Widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history, Ronaldo believes Mbappe possesses the same devastating blend of pace, power and ruthless finishing that made “O Fenomeno” virtually unstoppable during his prime.

The two-time World Cup winner admitted he sees striking similarities between the French captain and his own playing style, while describing Mbappe as the natural successor to football’s modern legends.

‘A natural heir to the legends’

Mbappe opened his World Cup campaign with a brace against Senegal before scoring twice again in France’s victory over Iraq. Although he failed to score against Norway, he still delivered two assists as Didier Deschamps’ side completed another impressive performance.

His displays have once again placed him firmly among the favourites for both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball alongside Argentina captain Lionel Messi.

Speaking to L’Equipe, Ronaldo said: “You also have to think about the legacy you leave. But they are both, without a doubt, players who transcend statistics and deserve to be the competition’s all-time top scorers.

“Messi is one of the greatest players in the history of football and he is still influential and decisive today.

“As for Mbappe, his playing style reminds me of myself at my peak. He is one of the greatest players in football today and a natural heir to the legends of the game.”

Real Madrid stars dominate the tournament

Mbappe’s outstanding form is part of a broader Real Madrid influence at this summer’s World Cup.

Los Blancos currently lead all clubs for goals scored by their players, with 11 strikes across the tournament. Mbappe and Vinicius Junior have each contributed four goals, while Jude Bellingham has scored twice for England and Arda Guler has added another for Turkey.

Madrid are now within touching distance of surpassing their own World Cup record of 12 goals by club players, a mark set during the 1998 tournament in France.