Having played against both Lamine Yamal and Ethan Nwaneri, I observed Ethan can literally do everything Lamine does but there are two things Ethan does that I’ve not seen from even Lionel Messi”: Ex-Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has named TWO things Ethan Nwaneri does that nobody has ever did. KYLE BELIEVES WITH THOSE TWO THINGS, NWANERI WILL WIN BALLON D’OR BEFORE LAMINE.

During a recent press conference, Manchester City defender Kyle Walker shared his thoughts on two of football’s most promising young players: Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal. After facing both players on the field, Walker provided a comparative analysis that has generated significant attention within the football world.

Ethan Nwaneri’s Distinctive Skills

Walker started by recognizing the impressive abilities of both Nwaneri and Yamal, noting that Nwaneri is capable of replicating many of Yamal’s movements on the field. However, he pointed out that Nwaneri brings two particular traits to the game that distinguish him, even from greats like Lionel Messi.

Although Walker did not elaborate on these two specific qualities during the press conference, his enthusiastic praise indicates that Nwaneri possesses extraordinary talents that could redefine what is expected of young footballers.

Ballon d’Or Potential

Looking ahead, Walker shared his conviction that Nwaneri’s unique skills could place him ahead of Yamal in the competition for the prestigious Ballon d’Or. He remarked, “With those two things, Nwaneri will win the Ballon d’Or before Lamine.”

This statement is especially notable given Yamal’s recent achievements. At just 17, the Barcelona forward claimed the 2024 Kopa Trophy, given to the best under-21 player in the world, after a breakout season with five goals and seven assists in La Liga. Yamal also received the Goal and Young Player of the Tournament awards during Spain’s victorious UEFA EURO 2024 campaign.

The Path Forward

As both Nwaneri and Yamal continue their development, the football world eagerly awaits their future performances. Walker’s comments add an interesting perspective to the ongoing debate about the next wave of football superstars.

While Yamal’s accomplishments have already set a high standard, Nwaneri’s exceptional abilities, as highlighted by Walker, indicate a promising future that could see him rise to the top of individual football awards.

As these young talents progress, both fans and analysts will be excited to see how their careers evolve and who will ultimately secure the sought-after Ballon d’Or first.