Teen sensation Diego Lainez has completed his transfer from the Liga MX champions to Spain’s first division.
After earning his first Liga MX title in December, America’s 18-year-old phenom Diego Lainez has signed a 5-year-deal with Real Betis where he’ll team up with El Tri captain Andrés Guardado.
The sale of the young Mexican midfielder earned América an estimated $14 million dollars. Lainez debuted in the Liga MX less than two years ago at just 16 years of age and since then his performances have earned him the moniker of “The Mexican Messi.” The nickname is derived from his slick dribbling skills, innate passing talent and the fact that he is left-footed.
Every professional soccer player dreams of playing in the best leagues and the young Mexican is realizing his dream early in his career.
Speculation about a move to Europe gained momentum throughout the Apertura 2018, but most reports had him moving to Ajax Amsterdam. Ajax officials were in the negotiation stage with America ownership in December and an agreement seemed imminent though the Dutch club was reluctant to match the asking price of $10 million dollars. Then Real Betis swooped in and now Lainez finds himself preparing to face top-notch competition in La Liga, definitely a step or two above the Eredivisie.
Lainez had some outstanding performances in the Apertura 2018, starting 15 games (despite suffering an injury knock near the start of the season). The Tabasco native scored 5 goals and had 2 assists.
In total, Lainez already has over 50 appearances with America in league and Cup matches. Superb numbers for a young player. Then elusive midfielder is also bidding to make an impact on the international stage, too, hoping to impress new Team Mexico coach Gerardo Martino. He debuted with El Tri last September, under the direction of interim manager Ricardo Ferretti, where he saw action against Uruguay and the United States.
His playmaking and his ability to finish are undeniable and he is not afraid to go toe-to-toe with any defender. He has explosive quickness and let’s not forget to mention his speed both of which he utilizes to find space down the flanks, traits that could make him a nightmare for defenders in the Spanish league.
La Liga is one the best leagues in the world, so Lainez faces a huge challenge, but he has tremendous potential. Lainez’s presence should make a big difference for his new team from Sevilla. No doubt, El Tri skipper Andres Guardado will help him adjust and hopefully make the transition as smooth as possible.
In truth, we want to see Lainez explode in La Liga. Best of luck, Diego!