Citing First Impressions, Arsene Wenger Compares Kylian Mbappe to Pele, Lays Out ‘Next Challenge’ for PSG Star

The French soccer fraternity and former Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, universally admire Kylian Mbappe. Previously, Wenger raised eyebrows with his claim that Mbappe could become the ‘new Pele’. A statement that the Brazilian icon himself agreed with. However, in 2023, Wenger’s prediction now looks remarkably accurate, as Mbappe just cannot stop scoring goals.

While fans expect the French superstar to challenge for the Ballon d’Or in the coming years, there is still room for improvement in his game. Therefore, one valuable suggestion by Wenger could help Mbappe improve his already impressive goal-scoring numbers. 

Arsene Wenger’s Kylian Mbappe prediction from 2016 looks spot-on

Notably, Kylian Mbappe burst into the European soccer scenario in 2016. His performances for Monaco were noteworthy and caught the eye of the former Arsenal Manager. Citing his first impression of Mbappe, Wenger said, “When Mbappé started, I said: ‘It’s Pelé!’ At the time, I was told I was a little crazy..” The French tactician added that Mbappe possessed the pace, intelligence, and the right mentality to excel in the game. All of these are considered standout attributes of Mbappe today.

Mbappe has won a World Cup and recently overtaken Lionel Messi as the fastest to reach 300 career goals. Moreover, Wenger also believes Mbappe to be ahead of his rival Erling Haaland despite the Ballon d’Or ranking. Wenger stated that Mbappe is technically better while possessing a stunning pace to dribble past his opponents. 

With Haaland and Mbappe boasting incredible numbers, perhaps Kylian would benefit from ‘Wenger’s challenge’, one that could help him outperform the Manchester City man.

Read More: “There’s No Age Limit”- PSG’s Kylian Mbappe Receives Major Transfer Advice Amid Real Madrid Transfer Interest

Wengers lays out the ‘challenge’ that will take Mbappe to the next level!

Despite being a prolific goalscorer, Kylian Mbappe is non-efficient, using his head to score goals. It is something Wenger believes the striker lacks in his game. The French tactician said, “He has enormous potential. He must improve in the headed game. This guy has the trigger of a high-jumper so he has to head goals for us. It’s not his qualities that no one doubts and it certainly the best day in the world today, but his next challenge is here.” 

It’s not just in scoring headed goals where Mbappe is lacking. The forward is in the one percentile for aerials won. It highlights that Mbappe could help the team defensively by improving his heading ability. Do you believe Kylian Mbappe can evolve his game to incorporate heading skills? Let us know in the comments below.

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