Klose Expects World Cup Goal Record to Fall as Messi and Mbappé Close In

Germany legend Miroslav Klose has admitted that he expects his long-standing FIFA World Cup goalscoring record to be broken during the 2026 tournament, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé among the leading candidates to surpass his historic mark.

Klose, who scored 16 goals in 24 World Cup appearances for Germany, became the tournament’s all-time leading scorer when he overtook Brazilian icon Ronaldo during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

More than a decade later, the former striker believes the expanded 48-team format increases the chances of his record finally being eclipsed.

Klose Would Welcome Messi Breaking the Record

Speaking to Suddeutsche Zeitung, Klose said he would be delighted to see Argentina captain Lionel Messi become the player who eventually surpasses his tally.

“I expect my record to be broken at this tournament,” Klose said.

“With more teams, there are more matches and therefore more opportunities to score goals. I also expect Argentina and France to go far in the competition.

“That’s perfectly fine. The record will be broken eventually anyway, and Messi is welcome to do it. I’m a huge Messi fan and always have been.”

Messi arrived at the 2026 World Cup with 13 tournament goals to his name, leaving him just three short of matching Klose’s record.

The Argentine superstar, who captained his country to World Cup glory in Qatar four years ago, is once again expected to play a pivotal role as Argentina attempt to retain their crown.

Klose also spoke highly of Messi’s influence on the sport and praised Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni, with whom he shared a dressing room during their time at Lazio.

“Messi is a genius,” Klose added.

“And I also have a lot of respect for the Argentinian coach, Scaloni. I played with him at Lazio. He showed me around the city back then, and we’ve remained good friends.”

Mbappé Also in Strong Contention

While Messi is among the favourites to challenge Klose’s record, France captain Kylian Mbappé is also closing in rapidly.

The Real Madrid forward has already scored 12 World Cup goals in just 14 appearances and, at 27 years old, could have several more opportunities to surpass the mark even if he falls short in North America.

With both Messi and Mbappé expected to lead their nations deep into the tournament, Klose’s record could face its toughest challenge yet.

Argentina begin their World Cup title defence against Algeria before taking on Austria and Jordan in their remaining Group B fixtures.