African legend George Weah says Mbappe is on different level as Yamal comparisons grow

African football legend George Weah says Kylian Mbappe should not be compared with Lamine Yamal, insisting the France forward is already operating at a different level.

The former Liberia, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan striker praised Mbappe after another impressive display at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the France captain has become one of the outstanding players of the tournament.

Mbappe has scored six goals in four matches, putting him level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot.

His latest contribution came early on Wednesday when he scored twice in France’s 3-0 win over Sweden, a result that sent Les Bleus into the round of 16.

For African audiences, Weah’s comments carry special weight.

The Liberian remains the only African player to have won the Ballon d’Or, claiming the award in 1995 after a glittering career in Europe.

Weah hails Mbappe’s quality

Weah, who also played for PSG before becoming one of the greatest African footballers of all time, said Mbappe’s current level makes him one of the defining players of his generation.

Speaking on El Chiringuito, Weah said: “Mbappe is a phenomenon… He is truly an excellent player and a brilliant goalscorer.”

Mbappe’s goals against Sweden reinforced his status as France’s biggest attacking weapon.

He has already delivered in the group stage and knockout phase, combining pace, finishing and leadership in a France side aiming to go deep once again.

The 2026 World Cup has also added to his growing reputation as one of the most decisive players in tournament football.

Yamal still developing

Weah was also asked about comparisons between Mbappe and Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal.

The 18-year-old returned from injury before the tournament and was eased back into action by Spain.

He appeared as a substitute in the first two matches against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia, before starting in the 1-0 victory over Uruguay.

Yamal also scored against Saudi Arabia, opening his World Cup account and showing flashes of the talent that has made him one of Europe’s most talked-about young players.

But Weah warned that the Barcelona forward should be allowed to develop without being measured against Mbappe too soon.

The only African player to win the Ballon d’Or in 1995 added, according to RMC Sport: “Lamine Yamal is still young and should not be compared to Kylian Mbappe; Mbappe is a phenomenon, while Yamal is still growing.”

Mbappe chasing World Cup history

Mbappe’s scoring form has placed him at the centre of France’s World Cup campaign.

With six goals already, he is not only fighting for the tournament’s top scorer award but also strengthening his place among the great modern World Cup performers.

France, winners in 2018 and finalists in 2022, continue to rely heavily on his finishing and ability to decide matches.

Weah’s praise reflects the view that Mbappe is no longer simply a talented forward with potential.

He is a complete superstar, already carrying the expectations of a major football nation.

African icon urges patience

Weah’s message on Yamal was not criticism, but caution.

The Liberian great recognised the Spanish teenager’s talent but said the comparison with Mbappe is unfair at this stage of his career.

Yamal is still working his way back to full sharpness after injury, while Mbappe is already at the peak of his powers.

Weah concluded his remarks by saying: “I hope Lamine Yamal continues his professional development, but there is no comparison between him and Mbappe; everyone knows that Mbappe is on a completely different level.”

For Weah, the lesson is clear.

Yamal may have the talent to become one of the world’s best in future, but Mbappe is already there.

At this World Cup, the France forward is proving it match after match.