Israel’s “new Messi” makes Barcelona Debut

Israeli teenage prodigy Gai Assulin showed some of his skill as he made his first team debut for European champion Barcelona this weekend.

Assulin played the first 45 minutes in a 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur at London’s Wembley Stadium.

The 18-year old Israeli international put in a good shift despite being played out of position – on the left wing. Assulin prefers a more central creative attacking midfield role, but proved his worth.

With Israelis now at Liverpool (Benayoun) and Barca – the country’s national team fans may start itching to see the team perform to its highest level – and qualify for either a World Cup Tournament or Euro Tournament within the next two cycles. But despite the “itch” to see our domestic stars perform brilliantly on the international (not just club) stage, the Israeli national team has yet to make waves on a big stage.

Perhaps Assulin’s career with Barcelona will grow in parallel with the Israeli national team’s rise to prominence too?

One can only hope.

At this point, it’s just a wish.