Jamal Musiala Reflects on Lionel Messi’s Influence While Embracing the Role as Germany’s New Number 10

Published 03/20/2024, 11:47 PM EDT

Think of the No. 10 on a soccer shirt, and the name Lionel Messi inevitably springs to mind. More than his name, the Argentinian superstar’s legacy is synonymous with the iconic digits adorning his jersey, serving as a beacon of inspiration for millions worldwide. It seems the latest to fall in awe of Messi’s magical number is Jamal Musiala, who outlines La Pulga as his inspiration, as he ‘feels really special’ to have assumed his role as Germany’s new no. 10.

With domestic action currently on hold, the Bayern Munich starlet joined his national teammates for this month’s international break. Interestingly, in an interview with RTL Sports, when asked to share his thoughts on embracing the responsibility associated with such a prestigious number, Musiala candidly confessed, “Yes, I think the number 10 has been a dream for me since I was a little kid, whenever I watched Messi or something like that.” While expressing his excitement, the 21-year-old star insisted on keeping his feet on the ground.

“But I won’t let it get to my head. It feels really special to be able to wear the #10,” added the 21-year-old. Notably, before Musiala, Serge Gnabry wore the No. 10 during the 2022 World Cup and the recent friendlies. Surprisingly, Gnabry hasn’t been called up by Julian Nagelsmann for fixtures against France on March 24 and the Netherlands on March 27. However, Gnabry does wear #10 at Bayern, with Musiala donning the #42. The youngster’s decision to take up Messi’s shirt number is not surprising, given that he admires the 8x Ballon d’Or winner.

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Jamal Musiala prefers Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo

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Jamal Musiala was once asked to dip his feet in the GOAT debate concerning Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Speaking with beIN Sports, he said, “It was a joy to watch them play football … despite all my appreciation for Cristiano, I am in Messi’s camp.” While these words must have brought discontent to CR7, the Portuguese superstar is in for more disappointment.

Bryan Zaragoza, who made a loan move to Bayern Munich from Granada unexpectedly, once stated, “My role model has always been Messi.” This disclosure is even more surprising considering that Zaragoza once replicated Ronaldo’s iconic ‘I Am Here’ celebration during a match between Barcelona and Granada. In any case, it’s fascinating to witness Messi’s influence on such emerging talents.

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One can only hope that Musiala successfully shoulders the responsibility of Germany’s iconic No. 10 jersey. We would like to hear your take on this in the comments.

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Written by:

Abhishek Mishra is a senior Soccer Writer at EssentiallySports. His early exposure to playing soccer earned him many accolades at college divisions, making him a sports enthusiast. While closely following daily updates for over a decade, Abhishek is well-versed in European soccer and now the MLS, as well.

Edited by:

Daniel D'Cruz

Jamal Musiala Reflects on Lionel Messi’s Influence While Embracing the Role as Germany’s New Number 10

Jamal Musiala prefers Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo

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