Football is currently brimming with extraordinary young talent as managers increasingly lean on rising stars to navigate the challenges of packed schedules. Unsurprisingly, the most gifted among them quickly establish themselves in starting lineups for some of the world’s biggest clubs.
By analysing recent performances, accolades, influence at both club and international levels, long-term potential, and essential stats, we’ve curated a list that highlights the brightest young prospects in the sport today.
At Sholy Nation Sports, we’ve identified the top footballers aged 21 or under who are already making their mark on the game. Let’s dive into the future stars shaping the beautiful game.
15. Rico Lewis | England, Age 19
Position: Defender. Club: Manchester City. DOB: 21/11/2004.
Rico Lewis burst onto the scene during Manchester City’s 2022-23 season and hasn’t looked back since. Making an impression in a team managed by Pep Guardiola requires immense talent, and Lewis has proven his worth time and time again. The 19-year-old has embraced the inverted full-back role, showcasing versatility and tactical understanding beyond his years.
Lewis earned his England senior debut just before his 19th birthday in November 2023. With over 15 Premier League appearances last season, including his first goal in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace, the future looks incredibly bright for this promising defender.
14. Marc Casado | Spain, Age 21
Position: Midfielder. Club: Barcelona. DOB: 14/09/2003.
The Camp Nou has long been a breeding ground for Spain’s finest midfield maestros, and Marc Casado is the latest to emerge. The 21-year-old is making waves under Hansi Flick, despite the stiff competition in Barcelona’s midfield. Casado’s development is one to watch, with many believing he could become a regular fixture in the team in the near future.
A player who embodies the traditions of La Masia, Casado’s playing style is often likened to the legendary duo of Xavi and Sergio Busquets. Calm and assured on the ball, his positional intelligence allows him to dictate play with ease. Barcelona’s famed academy has unearthed another gem in this young midfielder.
13. Benjamin Sesko | Slovenia, Age 21
Position: Striker. Club: RB Leipzig. DOB: 31/05/2003.
Inspired by Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Benjamin Sesko is quickly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young strikers in Europe. With an impressive combination of speed, strength, and finishing ability, the Slovenian forward has drawn comparisons to the Swedish legend.
Sesko is nearing 100 professional goals, a remarkable milestone at his age. Already a key figure for both club and country, he’s drawn interest from Europe’s top teams. Although he extended his RB Leipzig contract until 2029, it’s only a matter of time before Sesko takes the next step in his career.
12. Joao Neves | Portugal, Age 20
Position: Midfielder. Club: Paris Saint-Germain. DOB: 27/09/2004.
Joao Neves has been touted as one of Europe’s most promising midfielders. After several top clubs vied for his signature, Paris Saint-Germain secured his services in the summer, beating Manchester United to the punch.
The Portuguese international played a significant role for his country at Euro 2024, a testament to his growing reputation. Neves is a complete midfielder, equally adept at breaking up play and delivering defence-splitting passes.
11. Pau Cubarsi | Spain, Age 17
Position: Defender. Club: Barcelona. DOB: 22/01/2007.
La Masia’s production line continues to thrive, with Pau Cubarsi emerging as one of its most exciting prospects. The young centre-back made his senior debut for Spain in March 2024, becoming the youngest player ever to represent the national team.
Intelligent and composed, Cubarsi is following in the footsteps of players like Pedri and Gavi. Barcelona fans are already tipping the 17-year-old to become a future mainstay in their defence.
10. Alejandro Garnacho | Argentina, Age 20
Position: Winger. Club: Manchester United. DOB: 01/07/2004.
Alejandro Garnacho is taking significant strides at Manchester United. The Argentine winger, who already has eight senior international caps, scored a jaw-dropping overhead kick against Everton during the 2023-24 season—a goal widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s finest.
Fearless and direct in his approach, Garnacho is a fan favourite at Old Trafford. Though there’s room for improvement, his raw talent suggests he could become one of the best wingers in the world.
9. Gavi | Spain, Age 20
Position: Midfielder. Club: Barcelona. DOB: 05/08/2004.
A fierce competitor and a gifted technician, Gavi epitomises the future of Spanish football. Since making his La Liga debut at 17, the Barcelona midfielder has been a cornerstone of the team, showcasing maturity and skill well beyond his years.
Despite his smaller stature, Gavi’s aggression and ability to dictate games have made him a standout performer. With a long-term contract secured, Barcelona fans can expect him to dominate their midfield for years to come.
8. Warren Zaire-Emery | France, Age 18
Position: Midfielder. Club: Paris Saint-Germain. DOB: 08/03/2006.
At just 18 years old, Warren Zaire-Emery has already cemented himself as a key figure for Paris Saint-Germain. During the 2023-24 season, he became one of Luis Enrique’s most trusted players in a squad packed with star talent, a clear testament to his remarkable ability.
Zaire-Emery’s composure in possession, combined with his athleticism and vision, allows him to control games from midfield. Already seen as a leader for the future, he has the potential to dominate European football for the next decade and beyond.
7. Kobbie Mainoo | England, Age 19
Position: Midfielder. Club: Manchester United. DOB: 19/04/2005.
Kobbie Mainoo has made a huge impact at Manchester United over the past year, earning plaudits for his maturity and composure in challenging circumstances. Despite United’s inconsistent form, the young midfielder has seized his opportunities, quickly becoming a fan favourite.
Mainoo also played a key role for England during Euro 2024, holding his own in high-pressure knockout matches. With his talent and determination, he looks destined for a glittering career.
6. Arda Guler | Turkey, Age 19
Position: Midfielder. Club: Real Madrid. DOB: 25/02/2005.
Arda Guler has drawn immense praise since joining Real Madrid in 2023, with some even comparing his potential to Lionel Messi’s. Though injuries limited his appearances early on, the Turkish playmaker’s time at Fenerbahce showcased his immense talent, where he contributed 21 goals in just 51 matches.
At Madrid, Guler is already turning heads with his creativity, vision, and technical brilliance. With time on his side, he’s poised to become one of the most celebrated players of his generation.
5. Xavi Simons | Netherlands, Age 21
Position: Midfielder. Club: RB Leipzig (on loan). DOB: 21/04/2003.
Xavi Simons has been a household name since his teenage years, attracting attention as a youth star at Barcelona. After a brief spell at Paris Saint-Germain, he truly shone during his time at PSV Eindhoven, where his outstanding performances earned him a move back to PSG and a loan to RB Leipzig.
Simons was instrumental in the Netherlands’ run to the Euro 2024 semi-finals, showcasing his flair and versatility in midfield. The 21-year-old continues to develop into one of Europe’s most exciting talents.
4. Florian Wirtz | Germany, Age 21
Position: Midfielder. Club: Bayer Leverkusen. DOB: 03/05/2003.
Florian Wirtz has bounced back brilliantly from a serious injury to lead Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title in years. The 21-year-old playmaker has become the creative heartbeat of Xabi Alonso’s team, delivering clutch performances throughout the campaign.
Already linked with Europe’s biggest clubs, Wirtz’s technical ability and eye for a killer pass make him one of the brightest prospects in world football.
3. Jude Bellingham | England, Age 21
Position: Midfielder. Club: Real Madrid. DOB: 29/06/2003.
Jude Bellingham has taken the footballing world by storm since his move to Real Madrid in 2023. Leading Los Blancos to both La Liga and Champions League triumphs last season, the England midfielder has exceeded even the highest expectations.
Known for his leadership, versatility, and incredible work rate, Bellingham is already being hailed as one of the best British players to ever play abroad. At just 21, his ceiling seems limitless.
2. Jamal Musiala | Germany, Age 21
Position: Midfielder. Club: Bayern Munich. DOB: 26/02/2003.
Jamal Musiala has become Bayern Munich’s golden boy, dazzling fans with his incredible dribbling and match-winning ability. His performances at the 2022 World Cup made him one of the few bright spots in Germany’s disappointing campaign, while he continues to shine in the Bundesliga.
Musiala’s mix of flair, strength, and resilience makes him nearly impossible to defend against. He is already one of the world’s best young midfielders and is expected to dominate for years to come.
1. Lamine Yamal | Spain, Age 17
Position: Winger. Club: Barcelona. DOB: 13/07/2007.
At just 16 years old, Lamine Yamal announced himself on the La Liga stage with an eye-catching debut for Barcelona. Fast forward a year, and he’s already being hailed as one of the most exciting prospects in world football.
Seven goals and 11 assists so far this season.
Yamal’s ability to impact games at such a young age is astonishing, with many comparing him to Lionel Messi. With his fearless approach, sharp decision-making, and technical brilliance, the Barcelona starlet looks set to dominate the sport for years to come
