Fans are comparing Alexis Mac Allister with Argentina legend Juan Roman Riquelme after his impressive performance in the World Cup final against France.
In what was a spectacular final filled with twists and turns, Argentina eventually came out on top as they beat France 4-2 via a penalty shootout to get their hands on the World Cup trophy.
There were many big names in Argentina’s starting eleven, including Lionel Messi, Angel di Maria and Rodrigo de Paul.
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However, one name in particular caught the eyes of many during the tournament in Qatar, in the shape of Brighton midfielder Mac Allister.
The 24-year-old did not start his side’s shock defeat against Saudi Arabia but then was a constant feature for Lionel Scaloni.
In the final, Mac Allister produced a stunning display that has got fans comparing him with Riquelme, who is regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.
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The comparison came after a clip of Mac Allister showing great skill and composure to get out of tight spaces with the ball during the final against France went viral.
One fan said: “Riquelme's aura got into Mac Allister's body, my God, how are you going to play a world final like this?”
Whilst another fan wrote: “Look, I love Román, but he is more like Zidane than anything else.”
A third fan added: “I told a friend in the game "it reminds me of Riquelme" they couldn't take the ball away from him, ANIMAL!”
After an impressive campaign, a lot of big clubs around Europe will be looking to lure Mac Allister away from Brighton.
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During Argentina’s celebration in Buenos Aires, Mac Allister said: “For me, Brighton is a team that has backed me at a time that was very hard for me and talking about other teams would be disrespectful.
“I’m a boy who is very grateful to Brighton.
“I know what I think about my club, what I think about the people, what I think about my teammates.”
Seagulls boss Roberto de Zerbi said: “This competition is very important and very pressured for them, and I want Alexis to come back when he's ready to play.”
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Do you think Mac Allister will be at Brighton after this season? Let us know in the comments.
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Featured Image Credit: Alamy/Twitter@TatiiiCABJTopics: Argentina, Football World Cup, Football, Alexis Mac Allister
