Claude Makelele has branded Kylian Mbappé the closest thing to a new Ronaldo Nazário after the Real Madrid forward’s standout displays at the 2026 World Cup.
The former midfield enforcer tipped Mbappé to win the Ballon d’Or in 2026, citing his relentless consistency and physical dominance. Makelele’s comments came after Mbappé starred in France’s World Cup semi-final run, despite a trophy drought at club level with Real Madrid this season.
What did Makelele say?
Makelele told Marca he would love to see Mbappé lift the Ballon d’Or next year. “He hasn’t picked up many trophies with Real Madrid this season, but what he’s producing at this World Cup is exceptional,” he said.
He then drew a direct line between Mbappé and Ronaldo Nazário. “Kylian Mbappé’s relentless consistency season after season is drawing him closer and closer to Ronaldo Nazário. We didn’t call the Brazilian ‘O Fenômeno’ for nothing, and Mbappé is undoubtedly the phenomenon of his own generation.”
Why does this matter for Ronaldo Nazário?
The comparison isn’t just flattery. Makelele’s words frame Mbappé as the heir to Ronaldo Nazário’s explosive, generational impact. The Brazilian scored 41 goals in 57 games for Brazil between 1994 and 2002, a strike rate Mbappé is now matching in his prime.
Makelele’s praise also highlights Mbappé’s durability. While Ronaldo Nazário’s career was punctuated by knee injuries, Mbappé has stayed at peak level for years. His 2026 World Cup performances—including a brace against Spain in the semi-final—have silenced critics questioning his big-game mentality.
What’s next for Mbappé and Ronaldo Nazário?
France now faces Spain in the World Cup semi-final on 14 July 2026. Mbappé aims to lead Les Bleus to a third straight final and a second title. Makelele expects him to keep rising, even beyond Ronaldo Nazário’s record 15 World Cup goals.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo Nazário remains a global icon. The Brazilian legend, now 50, still shapes football’s conversation decades after his prime. His name still triggers debates over the greatest ever—debates Makelele just reignited.
Mbappé’s rise vs. Ronaldo Nazário’s legacy
Makelele refused to rank Mbappé above past greats like Pelé or Maradona. “You never compare the greats,” he said. But his Ronaldo Nazário link isn’t a stretch. Both redefined football’s physical and technical limits.
Mbappé, 27, has already won a World Cup and four Ligue 1 titles. Ronaldo Nazário, 50, won two Ballon d’Or awards and two World Cups. The gap in trophies matters less than the way both players dominated eras—and how Mbappé is now carrying that torch.