Keita Balde shrugs off Kylian Mbappe comparisons

Keita Balde (C) of Monaco in action against Dusko Tosic (L) of Besiktas during the UEFA Champions League Group G soccer match between AS Monaco and Besiktas Istanbul at Stade Louis II in Monaco, 17 October 2017. EPA/SEBASTIEN NOGIER

by Graeme Jackson

Tuesday Oct 31, 2017. 15:30

Senegal attacker Keita Balde has shrugged off comparisons to Kylain Mbappe at Monaco following his strong recent form.

The Teranga Lions player has scored twice and laid on two assists for teammates in Monaco’s last four Ligue 1 matches.

He will have a chance to further showcase his skills when the principality side head to Turkey to take on Besiktas in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday evening.

Balde’s performances have inevitably led to comparisons to Mbappe, the young star who was sensational for Monaco last season before moving to rivals Paris Saint-Germain in a big-money transfer.

“I was expecting it,” the Senegal player said recently when asked about Mbappé.

“We’re both young players. But I’ve come to write my story, to play my game. I don’t want to be compared with anyone.

“My goal is to play as many matches as possible, to score and provide.”