African football may hold its next big star. At just 17 years old, Aboubacar Maiga, captain of the Malian selection U17, is arouse a craze that goes beyond the borders of his country. This young attacking midfielder, already compared to Lionel Messi for his liveliness, his ball conduct and his ability to switch a solo match, sees his name circulating with insistence on social networks, where his technical gestures and his lightning flashes ignite the platforms. A flattering nickname … but also a heavy goods vehicle to wear.
England, Promised Land?
It is now the largest European clubs that flock to enlist it. According to Chronicle liveManchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle would be in direct competition with FC Barcelona, which would have even tried a pre-contract by operating its partnership with the Africa Foot academy in Mali. But Maiga would have a clear preference: England. He dreams of the Premier League, a championship which he deems more conducive to his development, where the rise of young players is more visible and faster.
Aboubacar Maiga would not directly join the first team of a Premier League club. Its integration would first go through a training center, with a clear objective: to climb the ladder gradually, like other African talents today at the top. The U17 tournament of the West African Union in October will be its window. And all eyes will be on him. A life -size test.
A flattering comparison … and dangerous
But if the spotlights are now on him, the parallel with Messi remains double -edged. The history of football is full of players nicknamed “The Messi of (Tel Pays)” And who have never managed to transform hopes into reality. Too early exposed, too quickly expected. For Maiga, caution will be as essential as talent.
Wearing a country, a reputation and such overwhelming comparison at only 17 years old is not trivial. But if the “Malian Messiah” continues on its momentum, everything suggests that Europe will not wait long before seeing it shine. Provided that the dream does not turn too quickly into a burden.
