Giovanna Waksman Named by Messi Among Top Global Football Prospects

Brazilian football sensation Giovanna Waksman, aged 17, has earned a prestigious place on Lionel Messi's list of the world’s top young football talents. As part of Adidas's 'Messi+10' campaign, Messi highlighted Giovanna as one of the ten most promising players worldwide and notably the only Brazilian on the roster. This recognition underscores her rising influence in the women's game and marks an important milestone in her burgeoning career.

Giovanna currently plays as a midfielder for Lyon, a premier club in women's football with eight UEFA Women's Champions League titles to its name. She signed her first professional contract with Lyon in March 2023, securing her place until June 2028. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Giovanna began her football journey at Botafogo, where she initially played on the men's team due to the absence of a women's squad at the club. She later moved to the United States to join FC Florida and continue her education at Pine School, a transfer supported by businessman John Textor.

Her international experience includes starring for Brazil's youth teams, particularly during the 2025 Under-17 Women's World Cup. There, Giovanna scored three goals in four matches, demonstrating remarkable skill and contributing significantly to Brazil’s journey to the semifinals before they were ousted by North Korea. Unfortunately, she sustained a knee ligament injury during the tournament, which has temporarily sidelined her. She is currently undergoing treatment while being carefully managed by her club.

Giovanna has also received direct recognition from Messi himself. Upon Messi's retirement from international football on October 6, 2026, Giovanna was gifted a special edition boot in a gesture that symbolizes her emerging status in football. She expressed deep admiration for Messi on social media, calling him her inspiration and crediting him for nurturing her love for the sport.

The 'Messi+10' initiative, now in its third season, has previously spotlighted Brazilian talents such as Kenedy in 2015 and Andrey Santos in 2025, positioning Giovanna among a distinguished group of elite young players poised to shape the future of football.