Assan Ouedraogo (r.) was praised by Lionel Messi. © Getty Images
Assan Ouedraogo has long been one of the greatest talents in Germany, but word has apparently gotten around internationally about the 18-year-old’s qualities. The youngster was mentioned by none other than Lionel Messi in the same breath as stars like Lamine Yamal and Kenan Yildiz. The RB jewel also has a special honor.
Last summer, Assan Ouedraogo was one of the hottest stocks on the transfer market. Ultimately, RB Leipzig won the race, but FC Bayern and numerous Premier League clubs were also said to be interested. The 18-year-old midfielder even appears to have left an impression on Lionel Messi with his previous appearances at professional level.
The 37-year-old mentioned Ouedraogo in the same breath as Barça jewel Lamine Yamal and Juventus Turin high-flyer Kenan Yildiz. In a promotional video for Adidas, the Argentine superstar revealed ten up-and-coming talents who he believes will have a great future. In addition, the ten players are exclusively allowed to wear Messi’s new shoes, the Adidas F50 Trifuno Estelar.
This means: If Ouedraogo plays his first game for RB Leipzig soon, it will be with Messi’s new shoes. Due to a knee injury, the youngster has not been able to play a single competitive game since his transfer, which was worth ten million euros to RB.
Ouedraogo will make his RB debut in October
Messi’s praise may have given him even more motivation to get started again. Ouedraogo has been training again since Tuesday and is completing parts of the team training. It is expected that he will make his debut for the Saxons in October.
On October 19th, Mainz 05 will be waiting in the Bundesliga after the international break, and the next Champions League game is on October 23rd against Liverpool FC. The Reds were also among those interested in Ouedraogo in the summer. The U17 world and European champion has made 17 appearances for Schalke 04 at professional level, scoring three goals and two assists.
