Lionel Messi’s Young Guns: A Look Back at the Players He Picked to Shine in 2020
Four years ago, Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, partnered with trading card company Topps to create a limited edition collection featuring 50 specially designed cards. Among those cards were "Top Talent" and "Youth on the Rise" picks, which highlighted the best young players in the world. We take a look back at the players Messi predicted would make an impact, and how they’ve fared since.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – "A full-back who is impressive going forward, it is the future."
The Liverpool right-back has certainly lived up to Messi’s expectations, establishing himself as one of Europe’s best full-backs. He’s broken numerous records, including the most assists by a defender in Premier League history.
Christian Pulisic – "He has great balance and agility."
The American winger joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund for £58 million in 2019, but his impact was inconsistent. He eventually joined AC Milan in 2023, where he’s shown glimpses of brilliance, but failed to live up to expectation.
Mason Mount – "Having watched him play, he has the potential to be one of the best."
The Manchester United midfielder was tipped for greatness by Messi, and has shown flashes of brilliance at Chelsea. After struggling with injuries, he’s slowly found his footing at Old Trafford.
Jadon Sancho – "His ability to dribble past defenders is impressive."
The Manchester United winger was another player praised by Messi, but his time at Old Trafford was marred by controversy and poor form. He’s since joined Chelsea, where he’s shown signs of improvement.
Luka Jovic – "A magical player who makes the impossible, possible."
The Real Madrid striker was one of Europe’s most sought-after young stars, but his time at Los Blancos was disappointing. He eventually joined Fiorentina, where he’s struggled to regain his form.
Kai Havertz – "His composure in front of goal is so impressive for such a young player."
The German international joined Chelsea from Bayer Leverkusen for £62 million in 2020, and has shown glimpses of brilliance. However, his time at Arsenal has been inconsistent, and he’s yet to fully deliver on his promise.
Eder Militao – "A phenomenal talent and fierce competitor."
The Real Madrid defender was praised by Messi, and has since established himself as one of the world’s best defenders, winning numerous titles with Los Blancos.
Ousmane Dembele – "His pace is frightening in training."
The French winger joined Barcelona from Borussia Dortmund for a record-breaking £135 million, but his time at the Camp Nou was disappointing. He eventually joined Paris Saint-Germain, where he’s shown glimpses of brilliance.
Phil Foden – "He will do amazing things in the game. He has huge talent."
Perhaps the most accurate prediction yet, Foden has gone on to become a key player for Manchester City, winning numerous titles and individual awards.
Houssem Aouar – "He is always calm with the ball at his feet with an excellent technical quality."
The French midfielder was one of Europe’s most talked-about young talents, but never quite lived up to expectation. He eventually joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, where he’s struggled to make an impact.
Frenkie de Jong – "One of the most accomplished passers I have ever seen for his age."
The Dutch midfielder joined Barcelona from Ajax for £65 million, and has since established himself as one of the world’s best midfielders, winning numerous titles with Los Blancos.
Joao Felix – "One of the most exciting young players in the world right now."
The Portuguese winger joined Atletico Madrid from Benfica for £112.9 million, but his time at the Wanda Metropolitano has been inconsistent. He eventually joined Chelsea on a permanent deal in 2023.
Kylian Mbappe – "He is so fast and he can finish. Very dangerous."
One of the most obvious predictions, Mbappe has gone on to become one of the world’s best players, winning numerous titles with Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team.
Joshua Kimmich – "A hugely talented full-back who provides so many assists."
The German international was hardly a young player on the rise when Messi praised him, but he’s continued to excel for Bayern Munich and the German national team.
Benjamin Pavard – "A classy defender who can strike a ball so well."
The French full-back joined Bayern Munich from Stuttgart, and has since become a key player for the Bavarians, winning numerous titles and individual awards.
As we look back at Messi’s predictions, it’s clear that some players have exceeded expectations, while others have struggled to live up to their promise. One thing is certain, however – these players have all made a significant impact on the beautiful game.
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