Lionel Messi is winding down a glittering career, yet his talent radar stays razor‑sharp as he names ten youngsters poised to shape football’s next chapter. Could any of them become the next global icon?
Zavier Gozo lands on Messi’s radar, touted as a future star. The 19‑year‑old winger now dons Crystal Palace’s colors and is viewed as a top USMNT prospect.
Lionel Messi’s full roster of future stars
Messi’s picks cover both men’s and women’s game, spotlighting players already impacting club and country, proving his scouting instincts remain keen. For my money, his list shows he still knows the sport’s next wave.
- Can Uzun (20): Turkey – Eintracht Frankfurt – Attacking Midfielder / Forward
- Chloe Sarwie (17): England – Chelsea FC Women – Defender
- Gilberto Mora (17): Mexico – Club Tijuana – Attacking Midfielder
- Giovanna Waksman (17): Brazil – OL Lyonnes Women – Midfielder
- Jesús Rodríguez (20): Spain – Como – Winger
- Kees Smit (20): Netherlands – AZ Alkmaar – Midfielder
- Lotta Wrede (18): Germany – Hamburger SV Women – Forward / Midfielder
- Max Dowman (16): England – Arsenal – Winger / Midfielder
- Tomás Aranda (19): Argentina – Boca Juniors – Attacking Midfielder
- Zavier Gozo (19): United States – Crystal Palace – Winger / Forward
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo hit the club scene with impressive displays after divergent international breaks.
Mexico’s Gilberto Mora is hailed as El Tri’s leading hope. After a standout 2026 World Cup run, clubs like Liverpool, Barcelona and Real Madrid are said to chase his signature.