Kylian Mbappé, captain of the French national football team, stated in a press conference on Thursday that he admires Cristiano Ronaldo's "greatness." Mbappé, who will face Ronaldo in the quarterfinals of the Euro 2024 on Saturday, declared that "there will never be anyone" like the Portuguese player.

Mbappé showered praise on Cristiano Ronaldo, who could be playing his last match in a European Championship. Despite his admiration, Mbappé made it clear that he hopes France will be the team to reach the semifinals, even if it means eliminating the former Real Madrid star.

"Everyone knows the admiration I have always had for Cristiano. I had the opportunity to meet and talk with him many times. We are in contact, and he always tries to give me good advice. It's an honor."

"No matter what happens, he will remain a football legend. But I hope we advance tomorrow," he said.

"I have never envied anything. I just want to admire Cristiano's greatness. There will be no one like him. He has left a mark on football history."

"He has inspired generations, scored countless goals, and won a vast number of titles. I have great respect for him, but I hope he won't be too happy tomorrow because we will have advanced to the semifinals," he added.

When asked if he wants to follow in Cristiano's footsteps at Real Madrid and become an idol like him, Mbappé emphasized that the Portuguese player "is unique and there is only one." He pointed out that he only wants to follow "his own path."

Moreover, he mentioned that he has been "fortunate to start living the dream of playing at Real Madrid" and expressed his intention to write a great story at the club. "But I'm not going there to follow Cristiano's story," he emphasized.