World Cup 2018: Kylian Mbappe can be the next Pele, says Arsene Wenger

ARSENE WENGER believes Kylian Mbappe has the potential to reach the same levels as Brazil legend Pele.

The 19-year-old set the World Cup alight in the round of 16 with a stunning individual performance in France's 4-3 win over Argentina.

He became the first teenager since Pele in 1958 to score twice in a single World Cup game.

And SunSport columnist Lothar Matthaus believes his performance was the best of the tournament so far. 

The Paris Saint-Germain youngster has proven his ability for his club but it was the first time he has produced on the biggest stage of them all.

And former Arsenal boss Wenger, who attempted to sign Mbappe, believes his potential on the pitch and maturity off it means he will go on to emulate one of the greatest players to have ever lived.

Speaking to beIN sports about the comparison, he said: "I was one of the first to say that. Why? Because I look at the numbers and when he started at Monaco, this guy had contributed to over 30 goals aged 17-and-a-half years.

“You are always scared because you don’t want the guy to become big-headed.

“But fortunately this boy has an exceptional intelligence and an exceptional way to deal with pressure.

“It’s natural for him to play football. Everything he does it right. He is talented and gifted, when he talks on TV you are surprised how relaxed he is, how well he analyses things.

"If you were a teacher you would give him 10/10 on and off the pitch. It’s the first time I have seen such maturity at that age.”

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Pele was one of the first to congratulate Mbappe on his performance against Argentina.

He 77-year-old wrote on Twitter: "Congratulations, @KMbappe. 2 goals in a World Cup so young puts you in great company!

"Good luck for your other games. Except against Brazil!"

Mbappe will have the chance to showcase his skills against Uruguay today in their quarter-final clash.