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Pochettino questions Mbappe “maturity” in Messi comparison

Kylian Mbappe - PSG
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The Frenchman has struggled to find his ideal position when alongside Neymar and Messi at PSG.

Mauricio Pochettino believes Mbappe is yet to become a complete player at Paris Saint-Germain.

Mbappe has publicly criticized manager Christophe Galtier over his tactics, insisting he feels more “freedom” when playing for France.

However, Pochettino, who’ve worked with Mbappe at PSG, believes the World Cup winner is yet to fully develop his qualities.

“Mbappe is younger (than Neymar and Lionel Messi) and still immature,” he told Gazzetta dello Sport. “He is an animal; he has great charisma but he still needs to find himself.

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“Leo and Ney are total players, they are more responsible although in different ways, while Kylian keeps looking for himself.”

He added: “It is difficult for him to distinguish the moments of the game when he has to take a risk and when he should not.

“He does not enjoy association with his teammates unless he’s in the defensive third of the pitch, because he needs space to make the most of his strengths.”

Mbappe has travelled with France to Qatar in a quest to defend their World Cup title.

Les Blues will take on Australia in their tournament opener on Tuesday before meeting Denmark four days later.

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