Former France international Steven Nzonzi stated that Kylian Mbappé has not yet reached the status of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, while identifying Rodri as the world’s best midfielder. Nzonzi, currently playing for Ligue 2 club Dunkerque after spells with Sevilla and AS Roma, shared his evaluations across several current football stars in remarks reported by AS.

Assessing the Ballon d’Or Case for Kylian Mbappé

Despite noting that Mbappé still has ground to cover to match the career trajectories of Messi and Ronaldo, Nzonzi argued that the French forward deserves the upcoming Ballon d’Or. Nzonzi described Mbappé as the best player in the world right now, pointing to his individual output despite having fewer team titles than established legends.

He is on the right track, but he has not yet reached that status, Nzonzi said regarding comparisons to Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. They are true legends, they have won everything individually and collectively, and Mbappé still has a long way to go to prove many things. Time will tell.

Midfield Comparisons Featuring Rodri and Eduardo Camavinga

Shifting to the center of the pitch, Nzonzi addressed the qualities of Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri alongside Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni. While praising Tchouaméni as a high-level competitor, Nzonzi asserted that Rodri dictates matches with superior tactical intelligence.

Rodri is extremely intelligent, remarkable in all areas, and he controls the midfield like few players know how to do, Nzonzi said. I think Rodri is currently the best midfielder in the world.

On Eduardo Camavinga, his former teammate at Rennes who now plays for Real Madrid, Nzonzi pointed to international management as a catalyst for recovery. He noted that Camavinga is returning to his best form thanks to the backing of Zidane, adding that injuries had previously slowed the player’s progress in Spain.

Global Recognition for Michael Olise and Lamine Yamal

When asked about the top wingers in the game today, Nzonzi included Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal among the elite performers worldwide. Nzonzi stated that both young wingers operate at the same tier, carrying significant star status and match influence.

Beyond his current observations on active players, Nzonzi outlined his own career transition, confirming he is close to earning his UEFA A coaching license to pursue management after retirement.