Sholy Nation Sports presents our ultimate selection of the 10 brightest young football talents in 2024.
With a constant stream of fresh talent making waves, football is more exciting than ever. Every week, a new player emerges, capturing fans’ attention across the globe.
Whether it’s agile goalkeepers, solid defenders, creative midfielders, or clinical forwards, these rising stars are leaving their mark at the top level of the sport.
We’ve compiled this list based on current form, honours won, and contributions to both club and country, along with a look at some key stats.
Of course, you might have different opinions, but that’s part of the fun!
10. Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United) – 20
Alejandro Garnacho is on a trajectory to elevate his game further with Manchester United. The Madrid-born winger, who has already made three appearances for Argentina’s senior team, dazzled the Premier League during the 2023-24 season with one of its most memorable goals: an incredible overhead kick against Everton, earning him the Goal of the Month award for November.
Garnacho’s aggressive dribbling and audacious style have quickly made him a fan favourite at Old Trafford. While there are aspects of his game that need refinement, the 20-year-old possesses the talent and potential to become one of the premier wingers in global football if he continues to develop.
9. Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig) – 21
Xavi Simons has been in the spotlight from a young age, garnering a huge social media following as a teenager. Although once tipped to shine at Barcelona, his journey took him to PSG, PSV, and now RB Leipzig, where his playmaking skills have continued to flourish. The Dutch international also made a significant impact at Euro 2024, helping the Netherlands reach the semi-finals.
8. Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United) – 19
Kobbie Mainoo is one of Manchester United’s rising stars, quickly establishing himself as a key player in the squad. Despite the team’s struggles, Mainoo has stood out with his composed and mature performances. At just 19, he has already broken into the England national team, earning his place during the knockout stages of Euro 2024.
7. Arda Güler (Real Madrid) – 19
Arda Güler has proven to be one of Real Madrid’s most exciting prospects, showcasing his exceptional vision and creativity in midfield. The Turkish international has quickly adapted to the high demands at one of the biggest clubs in the world, cementing his place as one to watch in the coming years.
6. Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid) – 21
Eduardo Camavinga is already a name known across Europe, and for good reason. The young French midfielder is a vital part of Real Madrid’s future, with his versatility allowing him to perform in several roles. Having already won both the Champions League and La Liga, his ceiling appears limitless.
5. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen) – 21
Despite suffering a serious injury that kept him out of action for much of 2022, Florian Wirtz has bounced back with outstanding performances for Bayer Leverkusen. The German attacking midfielder is central to his team’s title challenge, known for his dribbling and playmaking abilities.
4. Pedri (Barcelona) – 21
Pedri remains one of Barcelona’s most prized assets, having already collected numerous accolades by the age of 21. His playmaking and vision have been crucial to Barcelona’s midfield, and despite some injury setbacks, he continues to impress whenever he’s on the pitch.
3. Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich) – 21
Jamal Musiala has already accomplished what many can only dream of. As a key player for Bayern Munich, he has won multiple Bundesliga titles and become a pivotal figure for the German national team. His ability to both score and assist makes him one of the most dangerous attackers in the world.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) – 17
Lamine Yamal has burst onto the scene at an incredibly young age, breaking records with Barcelona and standing out as a star in the making. His performances during the 2023-24 season, as well as his contribution to Spain’s success at Euro 2024, have solidified his place among the best young talents globally.
1. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – 20
Topping the list is none other than Jude Bellingham. Since moving to Real Madrid, Bellingham has shown that he’s not just a promising youngster but a complete midfielder. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game, score goals, and lead from the front makes him the standout player of his generation. At 20, he is already a vital part of one of the biggest clubs in the world and shows no signs of slowing down.
NOTABLE MENTIONS:
• Warren Zaire-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain) – 18
• Gavi (Barcelona) – 20
• Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United) – 20
• Joao Neves (Paris Saint-Germain) – 19
• Harvey Elliott (Liverpool) – 21
• Leny Yoro (Manchester United) – 18
• Oscar Bobb (Manchester City) – 21
• Kendry Paez (Independiente del Valle) – 17
• Rasmus Hojlund (Manchester United) – 21
• Vitor Roque (Real Betis, on loan from Barcelona) – 19
• Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona) – 17
• Mathys Tel (Bayern Munich) – 19
• Rico Lewis (Manchester City) – 19
• Evan Ferguson (Brighton) – 19
• Conor Bradley (Liverpool) – 21
