Fans of Barcelona icon Messi drag Real Madrid-bound star who lost possession 34 times vs Dortmund

Lionel Messi's ardent fanbase has hit out at Kylian Mbappe following Paris Saint-Germain's disappointing UEFA Champions League semifinal exit against Borussia Dortmund, questioning claims the Frenchman is among the world's elite players.

PSG's hopes of winning the Champions League crown were dashed after a 2-0 aggregate defeat to Mats Hummels-inspired Borussia Dortmund, with Mbappe struggling to impact the tie over two legs.

For Messi's loyal supporters, it was the perfect opportunity to take a swipe at the 24-year-old forward amid comparisons to their iconic idol.

Others were quick to assert Messi's sustained greatness, with one declaring: "Messi would never get knocked out to Dortmund that's all I'm saying."

Mbappe's underwhelming displays against the German side sparked criticism, with a fan posting: "Mbappe ghosting in two important games consecutively is crazy."

The Argentine magician's fanbase was aghast at any notion Mbappe could surpass Messi's legacy, with one hitting out at pundit Tezza's previous claim: "I can't believe there were people like Tezza saying that he will surpass Messi."

Mbappe mustered just one shot on target across the two legs and lost possession 34 times as Dortmund's defence shackled the Frenchman.

Despite his struggles, PSG's all-time top scorer is still expected to link up with Barcelona rivals Real Madrid this summer, though Messi fans think recent events show he has a long way to go.

"The media won't talk about it," one cynic suggested, implying Mbappe's high-profile semifinal flop will be swept under the carpet.

For Messi diehards, the PSG marksman's failings this season simply reinforce the view the 35-year-old Argentine remains in a class of his own at the summit of world football's elite.