5 days ago
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Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard believes that Michael Owen was a more superior teenage talent than both Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe.
The club's history is rich with iconic moments and legendary players, from unforgettable European triumphs to title battles etched in memory. Gerrard lifted 10 major trophies during his Anfield career, enjoying his greatest success in the famous 2000/01 treble-winning season, when he lined up alongside fellow scousers Owen, Jamie Carragher and Robbie Fowler.
The only piece of silverware to evade the former Liverpool captain was the Premier League title, which the Reds narrowly missed in the dramatic 2013/14 campaign under Brendan Rodgers.
Gerrard recalled the unique brilliance of Owen, who goals helped fire the Reds to win the League Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Cup.
Reflecting on Owen’s legacy in comparison to today’s stars, Gerrard said: “The other two are chasing the Ballon d’Or, and one’s got one (Owen).
"So, I think you have to respect the fact that Michael Owen has been voted the best player in the world. I played with him. He was an incredible teenager.
"So I’d have to say Michael Owen. But what I would say is Mbappe and Lamine Yamal – wow, they’re going to be two incredible players.”
Statistically, Owen’s teenage years were remarkable. In the 2000/01 season alone, he scored 24 goals and provided seven assists, netting both in the FA Cup final against Arsenal. His brilliance earned him the 2001 Ballon d’Or — still the only Liverpool player to claim the honour. By 22, Owen had amassed 102 goals and 27 assists.
At the same age, Mbappe had 135 goals and 52 assists, already a World Cup winner with France. Yamal, the youngest of the three, has 14 goals and 18 assists to his name, along with a European Championship medal for Spain.
The former Reds forward remains a divisive figure among Anfield fans, largely due to his outspoken views—like when Owen defended Trent Alexander-Arnold against critics after his decision to join Real Madrid became public.
While Owen will always be remembered as a Premier League legend, it’s difficult to deny that Mbappe's influence on the global game has been greater. Still, Owen was undeniably a generational talent for Liverpool.
Now, the Reds might be on the verge of seeing another star of similar potential emerging, following 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha’s sensational pre-season performances.
Liverpool.com says: Despite all that Mbappe and Yamal have accomplished, Owen’s influence on Liverpool remains unparalleled. His speed, instinct, and ability to deliver in crucial moments ignited Anfield.
Though his later career decisions sparked debate, Gerrard’s assessment rises above the nostalgia — to him, Owen was a true teenage phenomenon.
English (US) ·