Sports
February 18, 2025 11:00
- A deep dive into the player comparisons for Europe's top U21 talents, including Lamine Yamal, Jude Bellingham, and more.
Is Lamine Yamal the 'New Messi'?
Comparing young talents to established stars like Messi is a risky but intriguing exercise. At just 17, Yamal is already making waves at Barcelona, surpassing Messi's achievements at the same age. With exceptional skills and performance, Yamal's future looks promising, potentially outshining even the legendary Messi.
Jude Bellingham: The Next Lampard
Having moved to Real Madrid for a hefty sum, Bellingham's playing style resembles a more athletic version of Frank Lampard. His versatility, goal-scoring abilities, and overall impact on the pitch draw parallels to the Chelsea legend.
Florian Wirtz: The New David Silva
Wirtz's playing style echoes that of David Silva, with a touch of Isiah Pacheco's running back skills. The Leverkusen star's knack for creating opportunities and his vision on the field hint at a bright future in top-level football.
Jamal Musiala: A Tall Eden Hazard
Musiala's combination of dribbling skills and on-field impact draws comparisons to the legendary Eden Hazard. His ability to break defenses and create chances showcases his immense potential to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Gavi: A Mix of N'Golo Kanté and Nigel de Jong
Gavi's relentless pressing and dynamic midfield presence remind of later-career N'Golo Kanté, with shades of Nigel de Jong's robust style. Despite his young age and injury setbacks, Gavi's trajectory hints at a future as a world-class player.
Leny Yoro: The Agile Joel Matip
Yoro's raw talent and defensive prowess draw comparisons to Joel Matip, with a touch of agility akin to a cat. The Manchester United center-back's potential to evolve into a top-tier defender is evident, with early signs of promise in his playing style.
Pau Cubarsí: The Modern Thiago Silva
Cubarsí's intelligent positioning and exceptional passing skills align him with Thiago Silva's playing style. The young Barcelona center-back's early success hints at a lengthy career at the highest levels of the sport.
Xavi Simons: The Next Juan Mata
Simons' creative prowess and goal-scoring abilities mirror those of Juan Mata, with a similar stature and playing style. His career trajectory, much like Mata's, hinges on finding the right environment to showcase his talents and reach his full potential.
Warren Zaïre-Emery: The Esteban Cambiasso Protégé
Zaïre-Emery's versatility and ability to fill various roles in the midfield draw comparisons to Esteban Cambiasso's impactful style. The PSG midfielder's knack for adapting to different situations bodes well for a successful career trajectory akin to the Inter legend.
João Neves: The Mateo Kovacic Successor
Neves' ball-winning skills and progressive play resemble Mateo Kovacic's early career traits, with hints of a higher athletic range. The PSG midfielder's potential to develop into a key player mirrors Kovacic's journey to becoming a Champions League-winning starter.