In contemporary discussions of soccer role models in the current generation, two names often surface prominently, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. A testament to their influential dominance over soccer for the past 20 years can be visibly seen in numerous emerging talents, notably Bayern Munich’s newest recruit, Bryan Zaragoza. Although initial impressions from last year’s celebration might have led fans to believe he venerates CR7, this assumption doesn’t hold water. His admiration is indeed directed towards the Argentine.

Recent headlines from the German soccer sphere highlight Bryan Zaragoza’s unexpected loan to Bayern Munich from Granada. This abrupt transfer results from injuries sustained by notable Bayern stars Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry.

The young Bryan Zaragoza has always been inspired by Lionel Messi

Zaragoza, whose permanent move to Bayern Munich had been slated for summer, recently engaged in an interview. Talking about his inspiration, the 22-year-old revealed, “My role model has always been Messi.” While it is common for athletes to have role models, some might find the Spanish forward’s admiration of the Inter Miami captain surprising.

Interestingly, earlier this season during a match between Barcelona and Granada, Zaragoza imitated Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic “I Am Here” celebration. This is a post-goal ritual that the Portuguese striker has performed on numerous occasions at both club and international levels.

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It seems that both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo exert influence over Zaragoza’s soccer philosophy. How these influences transpire within the context of his new club remains a point of interest. Initially, he is on a loan until the summer, after which he will proceed with his permanent transfer as stipulated in the contract secured last December. The former Granada star will remain with the Bavarian giants up until 2029.

Bryan Zaragoza’s words of praise for the 36-year-old are not the sole ones currently causing a stir. Renowned soccer icon Eden Hazard has also recently acknowledged Lionel Messi’s superiority while asserting his own superiority over the Al Nassr striker in terms of pure soccer skills.

Eden Hazard makes a bold better-than-Cristiano-Ronaldo statement

In a recent interview, the retired Belgian star was questioned about whether he held any player in higher regard than himself. He promptly named Lionel Messi as the only one surpassing him. Hazard further stated with clear admiration, “I enjoyed seeing Barcelona’s Messi…..he is the greatest in history.”

“If I Had Been Like Cristiano, I Would Have Burned Myself”- Eden Hazard on Cristiano Ronaldo’s Mentality

The ex-Real Madrid star went on to discuss Cristiano Ronaldo too. He stated, “Cristiano is a greater player than me, but in terms of pure football, frankly, I don’t think so.” This certainly is a debate-igniting claim. Yet it is unquestionable how much respect Lionel Messi has garnered throughout his illustrious career.

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What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.