Como’s Jesus Rodriguez follows Nico Paz onto Messi’s list of future stars

Lionel Messi has named Como winger Jesus Rodriguez among his 10 young players to watch…

Football italia

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 9:10 PM

Key Things to Know

Lionel Messi selected Como winger Jesus Rodriguez for the 2026 Adidas "Backed by Messi" campaign.
Rodriguez joins teammate Nico Paz, who was previously chosen for the campaign last year.
Rodriguez moved from Real Betis to Como in 2025 in a deal reportedly exceeding $31 million.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Como winger Jesus Rodriguez has been selected by Lionel Messi as one of ten young players to watch in 2026 for the Adidas "Backed by Messi" campaign. The Spanish youngster follows Como teammate Nico Paz, who was selected last year, alongside other past Serie A honorees such as Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz and Davide Calabria.

Rodriguez joined Como from Real Betis in summer 2025 for a reported fee exceeding $31 million, continuing his development under manager Cesc Fabregas. The 2026 selections also include Arsenal midfielder Max Dowman, Crystal Palace player Zavier Gozo, and Eintracht Frankfurt forward Can Uzun.

Read the full article on Football italia

Como’s Jesus Rodriguez follows Nico Paz onto Messi’s list of future stars

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