Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe will head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup with more than just title ambitions as both forwards close in on one of the most prestigious individual records in international football.
The Argentine captain and the France superstar are among the leading contenders to surpass Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals during the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Klose, who represented Germany between 2001 and 2014, remains the highest scorer in World Cup history with 16 goals across four editions of the competition.
Messi eyes final opportunity
Messi enters the tournament with 13 World Cup goals, leaving him just three behind Klose’s long-standing mark.
The 38-year-old has previously suggested that the 2026 edition is likely to be his final World Cup, making the competition a potentially historic farewell on the global stage.
Having already won the trophy with Argentina in 2022, Messi now has another chance to add to his legacy by challenging a record that has stood since the 2014 tournament.
The Inter Miami forward remains one of the key figures in Argentina’s quest to defend their world title.
Mbappe poses biggest threat
While Messi may have one final opportunity, Mbappe appears to have time firmly on his side.
The France captain already has 12 World Cup goals despite being only 27 years old and is widely regarded as the player most likely to eventually surpass Klose’s total.
Mbappe announced himself on the world stage during France’s successful 2018 World Cup campaign and further enhanced his reputation with an outstanding goalscoring display at the 2022 tournament.
With France once again among the favourites, the Real Madrid forward will be expected to add significantly to his tally.
Yamal among future contenders
Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is another player being mentioned as a potential future challenger.
The 18-year-old is preparing for his first World Cup and has many years ahead of him to build a goalscoring record on football’s biggest stage.
However, for now, the spotlight remains on Messi and Mbappe as they pursue a place in history by targeting Klose’s benchmark of 16 World Cup goals.
Their performances over the coming weeks could determine whether one of football’s most iconic records finally falls.
