#messi-comparison

#messi-comparison

The UEFA Technical Observer Group (via @iMiaSanMia) explained why the 17-year-old was chosen as the standout player from the match: He posed a constant attacking threat, creating chances and achieving a high pass completion rate alongside a goal demonstrating outstandingly high technical level. His ability to receive between the lines and play forward also showed Karl's football intelligence, while he displayed his defensive value through ball recoveries and winning 55% of his ground duels.

Those are huge words. I try not to compare myself to anyone. Messi's had and continues to have a career that, for me, is unrivalled. I am Aitana. I have my own path to follow. I am not thinking about winning eight - or even four! Ultimately, this is the result of working hard every day, perseverance and a lot of sacrifices. There's no end goal other than to keep going day by day.

He carries the ball, he's quicker with the ball. He's like Messi. I remember playing against Messi - when he was off the ball he's not quick. Maybe it's because I was quicker than most," Walcott said. "When he had the ball he would just glide past people, glide past me with ease. [Dowman's] got that, he's got the stop-start. "What's really fascinating is that [Arsenal manager] Mikel Arteta will allow him to do that because that's his strength.