Lionel Messi picks 10 rising stars to debut his new Adidas F50 ‘Vis10n’ boots

October 17, 2025 Kris Isaksen

Lionel Messi is once again shaping the future of football—this time, not with a ball at his feet, but through his eye for emerging talent. As part of the launch of his new Adidas F50 'Vis10n' boots, Messi has selected 10 of the world's most exciting young players, each poised to carry the sport into a new era. Here's a closer look at the rising stars chosen by the football legend.

Kendry Paez, Chelsea (on loan at Strasbourg)

Kendry Paez has emerged from Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle as one of the game’s most promising midfield talents. Now at Strasbourg on loan from Chelsea, the 18-year-old already boasts 21 caps for Ecuador and displays a maturity beyond his years, especially in his positional awareness and off-the-ball movement.

Mohamed Kader Meite, Stade Rennais

A dominant force up front for Stade Rennais, Mohamed Kader Meite is turning heads across Europe with his physical presence and scoring ability. The 21-year-old French striker combines strength with a natural instinct for goal, making him a nightmare for Ligue 1 defenders and a likely future transfer target.

Rio Ngumoha, Liverpool

Rio Ngumoha has become one of Liverpool’s most thrilling young prospects after joining from Chelsea. His fearless play, quick feet, and ability to perform in clutch moments—like his late winner against Newcastle—underline why Messi sees him as a star in the making.

Rodrigo Mora, FC Porto

At just 5ft 5in, Rodrigo Mora may be small in stature but he plays with the flair and elegance of a seasoned pro. The FC Porto attacking midfielder is already a standout for Portugal’s U21s, known for his agility, dribbling, and technical skill in tight spaces.

Lily Yohannes, OL Lyon

Lily Yohannes has had a meteoric rise, starting with a move to Europe at age 10 and becoming Ajax’s youngest professional signing at 15. Now with Lyon, the composed American midfielder combines creativity with vision, making her one of the most exciting young players in the women’s game.

Andrey Santos, Chelsea

Andrey Santos is a midfield enforcer whose tackling and defensive instincts belie his youthful frame. After impressing on loan at Strasbourg, the Brazilian continues to show why Chelsea were so eager to sign him from Vasco da Gama in 2023.

Brajan Gruda, Brighton & Hove Albion

German winger Brajan Gruda joined Brighton in 2024 after a breakout season at Mainz. Known for his confident dribbling and incisive passes, Gruda is already proving to be a valuable addition on the flanks, with Messi recognising his high attacking potential.

Nico Paz, Como 1907

Formerly with Real Madrid Castilla, Nico Paz is now flourishing under Cesc Fabregas at Como 1907. The Argentine playmaker is calm, nimble, and draws inevitable comparisons to Messi himself, especially in how effortlessly he operates between the lines.

Mika Godts, Ajax

Mika Godts is a classic inverted winger, using his right foot to cut in from the left and cause havoc—much like Messi once did. The Belgian is known for his one-on-one prowess and sharp technical control, marking him as one of Ajax’s standout prospects.

Clara Serrajordi, Barcelona Women

Clara Serrajordi has slotted seamlessly into Barcelona’s senior setup, earning praise from captain Alexia Putellas for her game intelligence. The teenage midfielder is already being seen as the future heartbeat of the Catalan side’s midfield.