Real Madrid begin their 2025/26 Champions League campaign against Marseille, and all eyes will be on Kylian Mbappe, who faces a familiar rival from his Ligue 1 days.
The French superstar has an impressive record against Marseille, scoring 10 goals in 16 appearances while playing for Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain.
Now wearing the famous white shirt of Los Blancos, Mbappe enters the tie in red-hot form with eight goal contributions across his last six matches for club and country. He also recently surpassed Thierry Henry to become France’s second all-time leading goalscorer during the September international break.
However, when asked if Mbappe is currently the best player in the world, Marseille captain Leonardo Balerdi gave a different verdict.
“No, until Messi retires, Messi will be the best player in the world,” Balerdi told Téléfoot ahead of the fixture.
The Argentine defender acknowledged Mbappe’s brilliance but stood firm in his admiration for Lionel Messi, who continues to shine in MLS with Inter Miami.
Despite missing time through injury, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has racked up 27 goals and 10 assists this season, chasing a second consecutive Landon Donovan MVP award.
Balerdi added:
“But I’m sure Kylian is one of the best in the world, too. He’s been proving it for years, and this year he’s also at a great level.”
For Mbappe, personal milestones are also within reach. The 26-year-old has 55 Champions League goals and needs just two more to overtake Ruud van Nistelrooy on the all-time scoring list. A brace against Marseille would also see him draw level with Thomas Muller for sixth place.
Yet the bigger picture remains Madrid’s pursuit of European glory. After last season’s quarterfinal exit, Xabi Alonso’s side will be determined to start strong and make a statement in their opening Champions League fixture.
