Cristiano Ronaldo and a surprise pick, Kylian Mbappe reveals his ideal FIFA World Cup 2026 rivals

France star Kylian Mbappe has revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar are the two players he would most like to face at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. The Real Madrid forward is preparing for another World Cup campaign after helping France reach the final in Qatar four years ago. Mbappe won the Golden Boot in 2022. He scored a memorable hat-trick in the final. However, France fell short against Argentina in a penalty shootout.

Now 27, Mbappe is aiming to lead France to another World Cup title. Les Bleus are considered one of the strongest teams in the tournament because of their attacking talent and depth. As excitement builds ahead of the competition in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Mbappe has spoken about the players he hopes to meet on football’s biggest stage. He singled out Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, believing this could be the final World Cup appearance for both stars.

Kylian Mbappe hopes for one last FIFA World Cup battle with Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar

Speaking ahead of the tournament to Sorare, Kylian Mbappe explained that he would love the opportunity to face either Cristiano Ronaldo or Neymar during the competition. The French captain said he has already played against many top players at World Cups, but these two names stand out because they may not get another chance to compete in the event after 2026.


Mbappe suggested that Ronaldo and Neymar are nearing the end of their World Cup journeys. Because of that, he wants to share the field with them one more time in football’s biggest tournament. The France forward said that facing either of them would be special, as future World Cups may come too late for the veteran stars to participate.

France begin their World Cup campaign against Senegal on June 16. They will also face Iraq and Norway in Group I.

Recently, Mbappe and Ronaldo have also grabbed attention off the pitch through a viral Lego advertisement released ahead of the World Cup. In one video, Mbappe jokingly swaps Ronaldo’s Lego figurine with his own and hints that it is time for a change. Ronaldo later responded with a playful video of his own, replacing Mbappe’s figurine and suggesting he had corrected the situation. The campaign has attracted millions of views online and has helped build excitement before the start of the FIFA World Cup 2026.