Miroslav Klose predicts Lionel Messi or Kylian Mbappe will break his World Cup record
The former German player remains the highest goalscorer in World Cup history.
Five months ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, several records from the competition’s history are starting to gain attention.
Miroslav Klose presently holds the record for most goals scored in World Cup history, which is one of the most iconic. With 16 goals, the former German striker—who won the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil—considers how his record might be broken in the upcoming World Cup.
In a setting where great strikers have more offensive opportunities due to contemporary soccer, particularly penalty kicks, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe seem to be the leading candidates to unseat the German.
Miroslav Klose feels his World Cup record could be overtaken by Messi or Mbappe
The 47-year-old Klose, who is currently retired, acknowledged that his record might soon be surpassed. The former striker was direct on the topic in an interview with Bild.
“I’m sure my record as a goalscorer in the World Cups will be broken soon. Either Lionel Messi will do it in this World Cup, or at the latest, Kylian Mbappe in the next one,” said the Polish-born, German naturalized striker.
Messi’s 13 World Cup goals and Mbappe’s 12 are just a few goals away from matching or exceeding Klose’s total. The legendary Gerd Müller, with 14, and Ronaldo Nazario, with 15, are also behind the German.
If nothing unexpected happens, both Messi and Mbappe will play the 2026 World Cup. In 2026, the 38-year-old Argentine might compete in his final major tournament with the reigning champions, while Mbappé, who won the 2018 World Cup, will captain France under Didier Deschamps once more.
How many goals has Miroslav Klose scored in the World Cup?
He has 16 goals in 24 appearances across four editions from 2002 to 2014.
How many goals has Messi scored in the World Cup?
Messi has scored 13 goals in World Cups.
How many goals has Mbappe scored in the World Cup?
Mbappe has scored 12 goals in the World Cups.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.