For many years, Dybala has been considered to be the heir to the illustrious throne in which Lionel Messi has held throughout his career. As the Argentine legend approaches the tail end of his career, the emergence of Paulo Dybala has left many people wondering, does he have what it Takes?
Both Paulo Dybala, 23, and Lionel Messi, 30, originate from the South American nation of Argentina, famed for producing footballing talents such as Gabriel Batistuta and Diego Maradona. However, their youth careers differ dramatically.
Careers went in different directions
At the age of 13, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency and decided to join Barcelona's La Masia academy as they were prepared to pay for his treatment. The now 30-year-old developed through the academy and has continued to be a one-club man, making 386 appearances for the Blaugrana in a 13-year stint at the club. During his 13 year career, he has scored 354 goals, averaging around 0.9 goals per game.
On the other hand, Dybala began his career at Argentinian second division side, Instituto. After a year at his boyhood club, he then made the switch to Italy to join Palermo and then his current side, Juventus. With a total of 196 professional appearances across three clubs, he has managed to score 96 goals.
Therefore, the Juventus striker averages around 0.48 goals per game, which is considerably lower than Messi.
Statistics
However, goals aren't just what makes a good player, so let's look at some other key statistics. Both Argentine forwards are renowned for their incredible dribbling ability and close ball control, however, the statistics differ dramatically.
During the 2016/17 season, the Barcelona forward recorded on average 3.7 dribbles per game and was only bettered by Brazilian international, Neymar, within the division. Whilst Dybala only recorded 2.2 dribbles on average last season, the seventh highest within Serie A.
Furthermore, from a creative point of view, the two forwards show no similarities.
On average, Messi produced 2.3 key passes per 90 minutes. Whilst Paulo Dybala only produces 1.5 key passes per game. In addition to this, Lionel Messi is far more attack-minded as he produced 5.3 shots per game last season, whilst Dybala produces 2.9.
So who is better, Dybala or Messi?
A key argument between the current abilities between Lionel Messi and Paulo Dybala is the distinct difference in age and experience. Currently, Dybala is 23 years old and during his last campaign he scored eleven goals and provided seven assists, contributing to a goal every 120 minutes.
In comparison to Lionel Messi in the 2010/11 season when he was 23, well, there's quite the difference. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner scored 31 goals and provided 18 assists that season, contributing to a goal every 58 minutes.
Paulo Dybala is undoubtedly an incredible individual with wonderful potential, however, he simply doesn't compare to possibly the best player this planet has ever seen.
