Jamal Musiala, the midfielder for Bayern Munich, recently revealed that Lionel Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami, is his football idol. Musiala expressed his admiration for Messi by stating that he regularly watches his games and felt honored to be nominated for the 2023 Kopa Trophy, an award given to the world’s top U-21 player.
Despite coming in second place behind Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid for the Kopa Trophy, Musiala cherished the recognition, especially considering that past Ballon d’Or winners formed the jury for selecting the winner.
The Kopa Trophy, awarded annually on the same day as the Ballon d’Or ceremony, holds significance for young talents in the football world. Musiala, speaking to journalist Phillip Kessler, emphasized the impact Messi had on him while growing up, stating, “I considered that to be a great honour. Growing up, Messi was always someone I looked up to. I’ve always followed his games and thought highly of him.” Musiala’s admiration for Messi underscores the profound influence the Argentine superstar has had on emerging talents like himself.
