.jpg)
Lionel Messi has named Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Can Uzun alongside nine other global prospects as the young stars most likely to shape the future of football, according to promotional material released with sportswear manufacturer Adidas. The list spans Europe and the Americas, highlighting emerging talent across top professional leagues shortly after the Argentina forward’s emotional departure from international duty.
Can Uzun Leads Bundesliga Representation in Global Prospect List
Can Uzun stands out on the ten-player list as the sole representative from the German Bundesliga. The Turkish international has logged 19 goals and 12 assists across 65 appearances in the German top flight for Eintracht Frankfurt, establishing himself as a key creative midfielder in domestic and European competition.
Global Talents Selected by the Eight-Time Ballon d’Or Winner
The selection features several teenagers making early waves in top European and American leagues. Max Dowman of Arsenal secured a spot after making 15 appearances for the Gunners’ senior squad. The 16-year-old English midfielder featured in six Premier League matches last season, helping his side claim the league title and earning recognition as the Premier League Home Grown Debutant of the Season.
Crystal Palace forward Zavier Gozo also made the cut following his senior debut against Manchester City this season. The 19-year-old has since earned his first senior cap for the United States men’s national team.
Mexico international Gilberto Mora of Club Tijuana features among the most experienced teenagers on the roster, having already made four appearances at a World Cup. The 17-year-old is joined by Dutch midfielder Kees Smit of AZ Alkmaar and Spanish youth product Jesus Rodriguez, who currently plays under manager Cesc Fàbregas at Italian club Como 1907.
Youth Prospects in the Women’s Game
The announcement also highlights three rising talents in women’s football. Lotta Wrede of Hamburger SV and Giovanna Waksman of Olympique Lyon join Chelsea forward Chloe Sarwie on the selection. Sarwie, a 17-year-old attacker, has logged seven professional appearances and secured a place in England’s U20 national team squad ahead of the upcoming world youth tournament.
Previous Selections and Subsequent Career Milestones
The initiative follows similar scouting lists released by the Argentine star in previous years, which previously highlighted players who have since made notable strides in professional football. Last year’s selections included Rio Ngumoha, who established himself as an important option under manager Andoni Iraola at Liverpool and became the club’s youngest ever goalscorer in May 2025 during a fixture against Newcastle United. Other past nominees included Andrey Santos, who moved from Chelsea to Manchester United, and Kendry Páez, currently on loan at River Plate from Chelsea with 27 senior caps for Ecuador.
Keep reading
