• World Cup 2022

Bukayo Saka responds to Kylian Mbappe comparisons

Bukayo Saka - Arsenal
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The England winger’s strong start to his first-ever World Cup campaign has been impressive, leading to comparisons with Mbappe.

Bukayo Saka has dismissed comparisons between himself and Kylian Mbappe ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final clash against France.

The 21-year-old winger has carried over his strong form at Arsenal over to the World Cup, scoring three goals in as many games to help England reach the final eight of the tournament.

His performances have drawn comparisons with Mbappe’s from the 2018 World Cup. The France striker was just 18, yet he won the FIFA Young Player of the Tournament and scored four goals, including a goal in the final.

“Thank you for the compliment but no. There’s only one Kylian Mbappe,” Saka said in a press conference when asked if he could make a similar impact this year.

“At the same time, there’s only one me. I want to be myself and help the team in the best way I can. There are so many young players in the tournament, I can name so many. Even in our team, there’s a young player who’s doing unbelievably well in Jude Bellingham.

“I’m just happy we are all here and doing well. The priority is to win the tournament, not be player or young player of the tournament.”

England and France will meet on Saturday at the Al Bayt Stadium for the World Cup quarter-finals.

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