Lionel Messi has commented on Kylian Mbappe’s assertion that winning the Euros is tougher than claiming the World Cup. Mbappe, representing France, recently stated that the Euros present a greater challenge than the World Cup, noting the intensity starting from the group stages. According to The Mirror, the Real Madrid striker emphasized the Euro’s difficulty, highlighting France’s quest for a title they haven’t won in 24 years.
In a discussion ahead of the Copa America, Lionel Messi shared his views on Kylian Mbappe’s recent statements. Speaking to ESPN, Messi remarked that while the Euro Cup is a significant tournament featuring top teams, it excludes several world champion countries such as Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. He emphasized that the World Cup, which includes all past champions, remains the pinnacle of global football competition where every team strives to become world champions.
Meanwhile, in an interview with CNN, Mbappe expressed his ambition to win the Euros after achieving success with France in the World Cup and the Nations League. He stated that winning the Euros is his next goal, highlighting its importance to him, especially as it marks his first tournament as captain of the national team. Mbappe underscored his desire to make his country proud and to further cement their footballing legacy on the international stage.
When asked about the disappointment of the 2022 World Cup, Mbappe reflected, saying, “We were naturally disappointed, realizing how close we were… Close to achieving consecutive victories, something extraordinary, something for the history books. Everyone enjoyed the match except us. We didn’t like the outcome, but that’s sports. Now, when I watch the footage of the match again, I do so with a smile because it’s now part of history and it teaches us what we need to do if we reach the final again. We must fully engage in the game and not just react.”