Kylian Mbappé or Haaland? Thierry Henry Makes a Stunning Choice After the 3-2 Thriller: “I Choose…”

Former French and Premier League star Thierry Henry has made a clear choice between Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland following the thrilling first-leg encounter between Manchester City and Real Madrid in the Champions League (2-3).

Real Madrid and Manchester City once again delivered a blockbuster clash in the Champions League, reminiscent of their recent high-stakes battles. The match was fiercely contested, featuring several breathtaking moments and costly errors that did not sit well with some, including Wayne Rooney. As expected, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland—two of the best forwards in the world—found the net, further fueling the ongoing debate over who reigns supreme.

Thierry Henry’s Decisive Verdict

Speaking on CBS Sports, where he serves as a football pundit, former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry made no secret of his preference between the two superstars. According to him, Kylian Mbappé is a more complete player than Erling Haaland due to his versatility. “Who would I choose? Mbappé, every day. Because he offers different options. For a coach, he can play on the right, on the left, or through the middle,” Henry confidently stated.

To support his argument, the former France U-21 coach turned to his fellow pundits Micah Richards and Jamie Carragher—both former defenders—asking which of the two strikers they would rather mark. “Can Haaland play anywhere other than as a No. 9? Who would you prefer to defend against?” he asked. Without hesitation, both Richards and Carragher pointed to Haaland, acknowledging that the Norwegian’s game is more predictable since he is strictly a center-forward.

Seizing the moment, Henry doubled down on his stance: “Kylian, for me, has more talent. He’s been trying to play as a No. 9 for about a year and a half. PSG tried it, but it didn’t work out too well. Now, he’s doing it at Real Madrid, the biggest club in Europe. He has to adapt.” A bold statement that will surely catch the attention of Madrid’s No. 9, who continues to thrive under Carlo Ancelotti.

Mbappé’s Stunning Turnaround

When Mbappé arrived at Real Madrid last summer, things didn’t go smoothly for him at first. Used to dominating the left flank at PSG, the 26-year-old initially struggled to find his footing in a system that demanded more positional flexibility. His early performances in the Champions League—especially against AC Milan and Liverpool—were disappointing, drawing criticism from football legends. Even Henry, during a CBS Sports broadcast, expressed frustration over Mbappé’s reluctance to embrace the No. 9 role.

However, something changed. Since December, Mbappé has been nothing short of phenomenal, silencing doubters with his electric displays. In crucial matches where Real Madrid struggled, he stepped up, delivering clutch performances—none more impressive than his masterclass in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona. Now, he stands as Madrid’s top scorer in La Liga, playing with newfound confidence and authority.

From Struggles to Ballon d’Or Contender

Mbappé’s resurgence is a testament to his resilience. Once heavily scrutinized, he has now cemented himself as the main man at Real Madrid, proving that he can succeed in any system. More than just a goalscorer, he has adapted to the tactical demands of Ancelotti’s squad while maintaining his explosive style of play.

This turnaround places him in a strong position for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. If he maintains this level of performance and leads Madrid to more silverware, the coveted award could finally be his. At 26, he is entering his prime, and the football world is witnessing a player who is continuously evolving.

Haaland’s Limitations in the Debate

While Erling Haaland remains one of the deadliest strikers in football, his game is more one-dimensional. His primary strength is finishing—an area where he is almost unmatched—but he lacks the versatility Mbappé offers. The Norwegian thrives in a system that caters to his strengths, whereas Mbappé has demonstrated an ability to adapt, whether in Ligue 1, La Liga, or on the international stage.

Henry’s remarks highlight a crucial point in modern football: adaptability matters. Haaland may be a goal machine, but Mbappé’s ability to influence different phases of play—whether through dribbling, playmaking, or switching positions—gives him the edge in Henry’s eyes.

The Tactical Flexibility Argument

In today’s tactical landscape, managers value forwards who can operate in multiple roles. Mbappé’s ability to drift wide, cut inside, or even play as a false nine makes him a manager’s dream. Haaland, on the other hand, is a pure striker who relies on service. This distinction is what ultimately swayed Henry’s opinion.

Looking ahead, both players will continue to dominate discussions about the world’s best. But in Henry’s book, Mbappé has already won the battle—at least for now.

The Season’s Final Verdict

With the Champions League knockout rounds in full swing, both players have the opportunity to further prove their worth. Haaland will aim to fire Manchester City to back-to-back European glory, while Mbappé will be seeking to deliver Real Madrid their 15th Champions League title. How they perform in these high-pressure matches could shape the legacy of this era’s greatest forwards.

The Debate Rages On

Despite Henry’s firm stance, the Mbappé vs. Haaland debate is far from settled. Football is a dynamic sport, and perceptions can change with every big match. One thing is certain: both players are generational talents, and their rivalry will define the football landscape for years to come.

Whether one prefers Mbappé’s flair and adaptability or Haaland’s raw goalscoring prowess, fans can only sit back and enjoy the spectacle these two superstars continue to provide.