For Lionel Messi, Ibrahim Maza represents the third best emerging talent in the world.

Oct 31, 2026

Ibrahim Maza is emerging as a future star of world football. Ranked ninth for the Kopa Trophy at the 2026 Ballon d'Or (best young player), the Algerian international has received praise from two former Ballon d'Or winners.

The highest accolade came from the record-holder for titles (8), who many consider the greatest player of all time: Lionel Messi.

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Kopa Trophy: Lionel Messi placed Ibrahim Maza third

The Argentine not only praised the talent of the Algerian from Bayer Leverkusen in a public statement.

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In his vote for the Kopa Trophy, Lionel Messi ranked Ibrahim Maza in third place, behind the two Spaniards Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi. In other words, for the 2022 World Cup champion, Maza is already the third-best young talent in world football.

The Argentine captain certainly had the chance to appreciate the Algerian's talent during the match against Algeria in the 2026 World Cup. Despite the Argentinians' victory (3-0) with a hat-trick from Messi, Maza delivered an impressive performance.

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**Ousmane Dembélé considers Maza a “future Ballon d’Or”**

During the ceremony, the young Algerian prodigy received the endorsement of another former Ballon d'Or winner. Frenchman Ousmane Dembélé commented on one of his Instagram posts with praise. “Next Ballon d’Or InshAllah,” wrote the winner of the previous edition (2025).

This dual recognition from two major figures in world football is likely to further elevate the profile of Algeria's number 10 and Leverkusen player, who has been gaining momentum for several months.

This adds weight to rumors regarding a potential transfer of Ibrahim Maza to a major European club as early as this winter. Some media outlets have reported in recent days the interest of Luis Enrique, the PSG coach, in the Algerian player. Although nothing is official at this time, it is clear that Maza will not remain at Leverkusen for long.

For Lionel Messi, Ibrahim Maza represents the third best emerging talent in the world.

Kopa Trophy: Lionel Messi placed Ibrahim Maza third

Ousmane Dembélé considers Maza a “future Ballon d’Or”

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**Ousmane Dembélé considers Maza a “future Ballon d’Or”**