It is a dream of many young players to match Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo at this point of time in their career. The iconic duo continues to make records even at the twilight of their careers.
All you need to know about Giorgian de Arracaeta
Giorgian de Arracaeta made headlines this week after he beat the Inter Miami skipper to the prestigious 2025 Best South American Player award and also sold more shirts than Al-Nassr forward. The achievements have shocked the fans around the globe and led them to learn more about the player, who was unknown to many.
The Uruguayan player represents the Brazilian club Flamengo and played a crucial role in Filipe Luis's side in the 2025 season. The 31-year-old attacking midfielder led his side to win the FIFA Challenger Cup, the FIFA Derby of the Americas, the Copa Libertadores, the Brazilian Serie A, the Supercopa do Brasil and the Campeonato Carioca in the year, while amassing 23 goals and 10 assists in 61 matches.
Giorgian de Arracaeta beats Lionel Messi in Rei of America award
The exceptional season saw them win El Pais's award with over 67% of the vote, while Lionel Messi appeared second with just 15% of the vote from 250 journalists who were involved in the selection process. As per Footy Emporium, the Flamengo player also sold a stunning 975,000+ shirts, which was over 50,000 more than Cristiano Ronaldo' Al-Nassr jerseys.
Giorgian de Arracaeta beats Cristiano Ronaldo's jersey sales by a huge margin
The Uruguayan player has played just two years in his home country, kicking off his youth career with Defensor Sporting, and making his senior debut with them in 2012. He joined Cruzeiro in 2015, before moving to Flamengo in 2019 and has been with them ever since.