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.
However, one name in particular caught the eyes of many during the tournament in Qatar, in the shape of Brighton midfielder Mac Allister.
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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.
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.
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.”
Do you think Mac Allister will be at Brighton after this season? Let us know in the comments.
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Topics: Argentina, Football World Cup, Football, Alexis Mac Allister
Marcus Chan