"Someone I will always admire" - Brazil star talks about why he favors Lionel Messi over both Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Jr
Brazilian teenage sensation Estevao Willian has opened up on why he prefers Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Jr. The Palmeiras forward is considered one of the brightest young talents in Brazilian football and his style of play has drawn comparisons to the Argentine legend.
The 17-year-old, who will join Chelsea in 2025, recently talked about his admiration for Messi. In an interview with The Guardian (via Ojogo), Estevao admitted that he also admires Ronaldo and Neymar, but his biggest inspiration is Messi due to the Argentine's style of play and achievements.
Estevao said:
"I also like Neymar, by Cristiano Ronaldo. But my reference is Messi, for everything he has done for football. The way he plays and what he does on the field is someone I will always admire. And, of course, being a left-wing me, that favors him as well."
The youngster then highlighted the qualities of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, claiming that he looks to emulate both players' attributes.
"Some people are born with talent, others have to work. Good examples are Messi and Ronaldo. Messi has the talent, Ronaldo the effort. I look for both talent and dedication. Nowadays in football you have to dedicate yourself, keep a schedule, train, travel, take care of yourself," he added.
Estevao Willian signed for Chelsea this summer in a deal reportedly worth £51 million. However, he will link up with the Blues next summer after he turns 18.
Lionel Messi names 10 future superstars in football
Lionel Messi recently named 10 youngsters who he believes will become superstars in the future. In a video for sportswear brand Adidas promoting his new Triunfo Estelar F50 boots, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner named 10 footballers under the age of 20 who have a bright future in front of them.
The list includes Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, Juventus' Kenan Yildiz, Manchester City's Claudio Echeverri, and RB Leipzig duo of Antonio Nusa and Assan Ouedraogo.
Others are Eliesse Ben Seghir (AS Monaco), Joel Ndala (on loan at PSV Eindhoven from Manchester City), Cavan Sullivan (Philadelphia), Vicky Lopez (Barcelona Femini) and Jaedyn Shaw (San Diego Waves).