Gerard Pique gives measured verdict on Kylian Mbappe vs Erling Haaland debate

Barcelona icon Gerard Pique struggled when asked to pick a favourite between Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, admitting it's "difficult to choose".

The two are viewed as the best young strikers in European football. Mbappe, 23, has scored 167 goals in 214 appearances in all competitions for Paris Saint-Germain since joining the club from Monaco - initially on loan - in the summer of 2017.

The Frenchman has already won countless honours at club and international level - including five Ligue 1 titles, three French Cups, two French League Cups, two French Super Cups, the World Cup and Nations League. He's won 54 senior caps for his country to date.

Haaland, meanwhile, has been in blistering form since joining Borussia Dortmund in January 2020 - scoring 61 goals in 66 Bundesliga outings. The 21-year-old Norwegian's honours include two Austrian league titles, the Austrian Cup and German Cup.

Both young footballers have outstanding CVs and, in the most recent episode of The Overlap, Pique failed to pick a favourite when asked by Gary Neville. "They are two of the best players right now," admitted the veteran defender.

"They are very young and they both have the potential for the Ballon d’Or for sure. I think Haaland is more a pure striker, very strong and scores a lot of goals. Mbappe is a more complete player - can play as a winger or striker. I didn’t have the opportunity to play against Haaland, I played against Mbappe. It's difficult to choose."

On which other youngsters can become superstars, Pique added: "I think Pedri has a chance, Gavi is also very good for his age. We have great talents here at Barcelona right now. They have to grow and they will be better but still right now they are very good."

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