Lionel Messi makes his first move toward the future and picks 10 stars who could follow in his footsteps

• Lionel Messi partnered with Adidas to unveil his curated list of ten young rising stars representing the future of football.

• The selection features standout prospects including Mexican teenage phenomenon Gilberto Mora and Argentine forward Tomás Aranda.

• Previous selections like Liverpool winger Rio Ngumoha highlight the Argentine legend remarkable scouting accuracy.

Following his recent emotional farewell match representing Argentina, legendary icon Lionel Messi has taken a decisive step toward shaping the future of global football by partnering with Adidas to reveal his definitive list of ten emerging young talents. As international football prepares to enter a transitional era without its most decorated competitor, the eight time Ballon d’Or winner has highlighted the rising players possessing the technical brilliance, energy and competitive drive required to carry the sport forward into its next chapter.

a legacy to build on 🐐. the next chapter starts here.
meet the rising stars of Messi +10, season 3. 💫 https://t.co/8DVfmTPaXW

— adidas Football (@adidasfootball) October 11, 2026

Global talents featured in the prestigious selection

The carefully curated list spans multiple continents and youth academies, led by seventeen year old Mexican sensation Gilberto Mora following his impressive international tournament performances with Tijuana, alongside nineteen year old Argentine forward Tomás Aranda who recently made his senior international debut after breaking through at Boca Juniors. English football is prominently represented by Arsenal academy standout Max Dowman and Chelsea young star Chloe Sarwie, showcasing the remarkable depth of talent emerging across elite European club football.

International depth across elite European leagues

Rounding out the prestigious group of ten future stars are Crystal Palace American forward Zavier Gozo, Turkish international goalscorer Can Uzan from Eintracht Frankfurt, Dutch midfielder Kees Smit representing AZ Alkmaar, and rising playmaker Jesús Rodríguez shining in Italy under the management of Cesc Fàbregas. Female football excellence is equally represented through Hamburger SV standout Lotta Wrede and Lyon attacking prospect Giovanna Waksman, completing a comprehensive global snapshot of tomorrow football icons.

 

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Una publicación compartida por Marketing Registrado (@mktregistrado)

Proven accuracy from previous Messi selections

The significance of Messi endorsement is heavily underlined by the immediate professional success achieved by prospects named in previous editions, most notably Liverpool winger Rio Ngumoha, who validated the legendary forward judgment by establishing himself as a vital Premier League attacking option and setting club scoring records. Through this visionary initiative, Messi influence continues to inspire and guide the next generation of athletes destined for greatness.

Legacy and inspiration for upcoming generations

By publicly spotlighting emerging talents during a historic transitional moment in his career, Messi bridges the gap between past glory and future athletic achievement. As these young athletes continue developing their professional careers across elite leagues worldwide, the footballing community eagerly anticipates watching whether these chosen prospects ultimately fulfill their immense potential and cement their own legendary status in the sport.