Age isn’t the sole marker of greatness in football. Often, it’s evident early on which young players are on a path toward legendary careers. Lionel Messi is a prime example; from his early days at Barcelona, it was clear the Argentine had the potential to reach the very top of the game.
In 2024, there’s a new wave of talent, players aged 21 or younger, who show the skills and promise needed to become elite footballers. While another Messi may not come along soon, some of these young stars are still poised for remarkable careers.
Selection Criteria:
We’ve ranked today’s top young footballers using the following factors:
- Club and international achievements so far
- Projected potential
Only players aged 21 or younger are eligible, meaning more established young stars like Erling Haaland, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, Vinicius Jr, and Bukayo Saka are excluded from this list.
10. Kobbie Mainoo (19)
Despite Manchester United’s struggles under Erik ten Hag, 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo has emerged as a standout talent in midfield. Known for his composure, quick decision-making, and excellent ball control, Mainoo brings fluidity and vision that belie his age.
He shows tactical maturity in both advancing play and breaking up opposition attacks, providing a bright spot in an inconsistent United side. His skill, discipline, and ability to read the game hint at a promising future and make him one of the most exciting young talents to watch.
9. Eduardo Camavinga (21)
Despite Real Madrid’s seasoned roster, Eduardo Camavinga has emerged as one of the team’s most reliable midfielders this season. Averaging a solid 7.7 rating in La Liga, Camavinga’s consistency and maturity stand out, particularly considering Real’s fluctuating form.
In the recent El Clásico loss to Barcelona, he was arguably Madrid’s only bright spot, showcasing his ball control, defensive prowess, and work rate. His ability to break up play and initiate counters gives Madrid a dynamic edge in midfield, proving he’s more than capable of handling high-pressure games.
8. Savinho (20)
Brought in as a potential successor to Riyad Mahrez, Savinho has shown he’s ready to fill those shoes. Primarily operating as a left winger, Savinho brings flair and pace to City’s attack, frequently beating defenders with his dribbling skills.
In his debut season in the Premier League, he’s already tallied 5 assists across all competitions, contributing significantly to City’s fluid offensive style. His vision and creativity make him a dangerous playmaker, adding depth to Pep Guardiola’s attacking options.
7. Xavi Simons (21)
In a short span at RB Leipzig, Xavi Simons has made a substantial impact, contributing 4 goals and assists in just 7 league games before an unfortunate injury against Liverpool in the Champions League. Mostly known for his agility, quick thinking, and eye for goal, Simons has proven to be a valuable asset in Leipzig’s offensive structure.
His early performances reflect his ability to adapt quickly and influence games, showcasing why he’s one of Europe’s most exciting young prospects.
6. Jude Bellingham (21)
Since joining Real Madrid, Bellingham has adjusted his game to suit a deeper, more orchestrative role in midfield. While he’s not scoring or assisting at last season’s pace, his influence is still profound, having created 8 big chances in La Liga alone.
Bellingham’s ability to control the tempo, pick out key passes, and read the game is invaluable to Real’s midfield, ensuring stability and vision. Even in a less attacking role, his leadership and technical skills make him one of the most reliable young players in the world.
5. Joao Neves (20)
Joao Neves’ quick adaptation to PSG’s demands has been remarkable. As a defensive midfielder, he’s shown a balance of defensive tenacity and playmaking ability, contributing to 6 goals in Ligue 1.
His age and adaptability highlight his immense potential, especially given the tactical complexities of PSG’s system. Neves has been a valuable addition, providing solidity and flair to PSG’s midfield and standing out as a disciplined, promising young talent.
4. Jamal Musiala (21)
Jamal Musiala continues to impress as one of the most versatile young midfielders in Europe. Playing primarily as an attacking midfielder, he has already registered 3 goal contributions in just 5 Bundesliga games, and in the Champions League, he’s added 2 assists across only 3 matches, despite starting just one.
Musiala’s creativity and ball control make him a nightmare for defenders, and his awareness allows him to exploit spaces with ease. His confidence and technical skill are key elements in Bayern’s offensive strategies.
3. Florian Wirtz (21)
After overcoming a major injury, Florian Wirtz has come back stronger than ever, reasserting himself as one of Europe’s top young talents. With 8 goal contributions already in the early stages of the 2024/25 season, Wirtz has displayed a refined and versatile attacking style for Bayer Leverkusen.
His creativity and tactical understanding make him a significant threat in the final third, and his resilience has been inspiring, marking his return as one of the league’s standout stories.
2. Pedri (21)
Pedri is often described as a player whose quality isn’t fully captured in stats. Known for his incredible vision, technical skill, and composure, Pedri has an average rating of 7.8 in La Liga this season, winning every game he’s played.
He operates as a metronome in Barcelona’s midfield, dictating play and connecting the lines with ease. Despite his young age, Pedri’s maturity on the ball and ability to read the game make him an indispensable part of Barça’s setup, cementing his status as one of the world’s most promising midfielders.
1. Lamine Yamal (17)
The youngest on this list, Lamine Yamal has quickly become one of the most exciting young players in world football. At just 17, he has contributed 13 goals and assists in 14 games, an extraordinary feat for a player so early in his career. Yamal’s speed, creativity, and confidence make him a constant threat on the wing, and his impact has been instrumental in Barcelona’s recent successes. His style and maturity suggest a limitless ceiling, making him a true rising star and a player to watch closely in the coming years.
The sky is the limit for this superstar, and hopefully, he will be able to achieve everything and anything in football, just like Lionel Messi in the future.
Notable mentions:
- Alejandro Garnacho
- Pau Cubarsi
- Warren Zaire-Emery
- Kendry Paez
- Nico Paz
- Endrick
