New Jersey [US], June 29 (HBTV): Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazario praised Argentina captain Lionel Messi and France captain Kylian Mbappe, saying both players deserve to be among the FIFA World Cup's all-time leading scorers and have transcended statistics through their impact on the game.
France will take on Sweden in a high-voltage Round of 32 clash on July 1 (IST).
Speaking to L'Equipe, as quoted by Goal.com, Ronaldo said a player's legacy is defined not only by records but also by the influence they leave on the sport.
'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,' Ronaldo said.
The Brazilian great hailed Messi as one of the finest footballers in history, highlighting the Argentine's continued influence and match-winning ability.
'Messi is one of the greatest players in the history of football and he is still influential and decisive today,' he added.
Ronaldo also reserved high praise for Mbappe, comparing the France captain's playing style to his own during his prime.
'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,' Ronaldo said.
Mbappe began his FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a brace against Senegal before scoring another two goals in France's next group-stage match against Iraq. Although he did not score against Norway, the France captain played a key creative role by providing two assists as Les Bleus impressed with their attacking display.
The French forward is once again among the leading contenders for both the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball, alongside Messi.
Meanwhile, France head coach Didier Deschamps has rejoined the national team camp at the ongoing FIFA World Cup after briefly returning home following the death of his mother, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced on Saturday.
Deschamps missed France's final group-stage match against Norway, with assistant coach Guy Stephan taking charge in his absence. He returned home to attend his mother's funeral.
(ANI)