Lionel Messi, 39, and Kylian Mbappe, 27, are locked in a historic race for the most World Cup goals in history, but As of July 2, Messi has scored 19 goals in his World Cup career, while Mbappe has 18. Both have already surpassed German striker Miroslav Klose’s previous record of 16. However, the age gap may play a role in their future trajectories.

Messi Defies Age with Precision and Fitness

Messi, who is 39, has continued to perform at an elite level despite not possessing the physical attributes typically associated with top-tier soccer players. Standing at just 1.70 meters tall, he is shorter than most defenders, and while never particularly fast, he has adapted by relying on vision and anticipation.

According to The Conversation, Messi’s success stems from his ability to scan the field and anticipate movements before the ball arrives. Johan Cruyff, the legendary Dutch soccer philosopher, once remarked, “If I start running slightly earlier than someone else, I seem faster.” This insight into the game,rather than pure athleticism,has helped Messi remain a dominant force.

His physical fitness also plays a serious role. According to Health Chosun, Messi underwent a significant dietary overhaul in 2014 under the guidance of Italian nutritionist Giuliano Poerio. He cut out sugary and processed foods, opting for whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables. This shift led to a 3 kg weight loss, which he has maintained, and is credited with reducing his injury risk and extending his career.

Mbappe’s Ambition vs. the Odds

Mbappe, 27, is widely expected to surpass Messi in future World Cups. However, the 2030 World Cup—set to be held in Morocco, Portugal, and Spain—will find Mbappe at 31, an age when goal-scoring often declines. According to USA Today, just 12% of World Cup goal scorers in a given tournament are 31 or older at the start.

Age is not the only challenge. National team performance can be unpredictable. France, for instance, won the 2006 World Cup but exited early in 2010. Mbappe’s team, despite dominating in 2026, could face a similar fate in 2030.

Injuries are also a concern. French legend Just Fontaine, who scored 13 goals in a single World Cup in 1958, suffered a broken leg and retired from professional soccer by 1962. Superstars like Neymar and Marco Reus have also had their careers altered by injuries.

Comparisons with Younger Stars

Meanwhile, younger stars are also measuring their progress against Messi’s early career. According to Bolavip, when Lionel Messi was 18 years, 10 months old, he already had one Champions League title under his belt, with 322 minutes played across six matches. In contrast, Lamine Yamal, who is set to turn 19, has played 33 Champions League games but remains without a continental title.

Messi’s early success is notable: at age 21, he scored nine goals in the 2006 Champions League, including one in the final against Manchester United. Yamal, by comparison, has yet to reach that level of impact in European club competition.

While Messi and Mbappe remain at the forefront of the World Cup narrative, the challenges of age, performance, and injuries continue to shape their journeys. Whether Mbappe can eventually surpass Messi in the record books remains uncertain,but the race is far from over.