20 Best Young Players in the Premier League (2025)
The Premier League continues to be a proving ground for the next generation of football stars. With clubs investing in youth and giving talented players under 21 a platform to shine, we’ve ranked the top 20 young talents currently lighting up England’s top division. Based on appearances, potential, goals, and assists — here are the future stars to keep an eye on.
20. Mathys Tel – Tottenham Hotspur
After limited opportunities at Bayern Munich, Mathys Tel made the switch to Spurs in search of consistent minutes. While he's only scored twice in 14 appearances, the French forward has raw potential that Tottenham hopes to refine into top-tier talent.
19. Abdukodir Khusanov – Manchester City
Khusanov’s Premier League debut was one to forget, but the Uzbek defender has since grown into his role. With veterans like Ruben Dias and John Stones to learn from, the 21-year-old is in the right place to mature into a Premier League-calibre centre-back.
18. Romeo Lavia – Chelsea
Once a standout at Southampton, Lavia has yet to rediscover that form since his move to Chelsea. Injuries and squad depth have limited his impact, but his technical ability suggests he still has a big future if given the chance.
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17. Andrey Santos – Chelsea
The Brazilian midfielder made waves during his loan at Strasbourg, earning praise for his commanding presence. Chelsea fans are eager to see if his success in Ligue 1 translates to minutes in the Premier League this season.
16. Yankuba Minteh – Brighton & Hove Albion
After being sold by Newcastle to comply with financial regulations, Minteh has become a rising star at Brighton. With six goals and four assists, his electric pace and confidence on the ball make him one of the league's most exciting young wingers.
15. Jorrel Hato – Chelsea
Hato’s versatility and maturity at just 19 years old made him a hot property in Europe. After a standout season at Ajax, Chelsea snapped him up, hoping he can replicate that success on English soil.
14. Lucas Bergvall – Tottenham Hotspur
Joining Spurs from Djurgarden, Bergvall has slotted into the midfield with maturity beyond his years. Given extra responsibility due to injuries, the Swedish youngster hasn’t looked out of place in the Premier League.
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13. Archie Gray – Tottenham Hotspur
Signed from Leeds United, Gray has mostly been used out of position in defence but has shown incredible composure. At just 19, his leadership qualities are already turning heads in north London.
12. Leny Yoro – Manchester United
Yoro became the most expensive teenager in Premier League history, and his performances have mostly justified the hype. United beat top European clubs to his signature, signalling massive faith in the French defender’s future.
11. Alejandro Garnacho – Chelsea
After lighting up Old Trafford with moments of brilliance, Garnacho has made the switch to Chelsea. The Argentine winger brings pace, flair, and a goal threat to Stamford Bridge as he looks to take the next step in his career.
10. Lewis Hall – Newcastle United
A Chelsea academy product, Hall has flourished at Newcastle thanks to regular game time. With versatility to play in midfield or defence, the 20-year-old has quickly become a key part of Eddie Howe’s squad.
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9. Kobbie Mainoo – Manchester United
Mainoo dazzled fans with composed displays last season, even earning a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad. While he’s now facing challenges at club level under new management, his talent is still undeniable.
8. Savinho – Manchester City
After a breakout loan spell at Girona, Savinho arrived at Manchester City and hit the ground running. With 8 assists already, the Brazilian winger has proven he can make an impact in one of the world’s toughest leagues.
7. Estevao – Chelsea
Nicknamed “Messinho,” Estevao is already turning heads with his flair and confidence on the ball. Although game time may be limited, his inclusion in Chelsea’s lineup against West Ham shows the coaching staff’s belief in him.
6. Ethan Nwaneri – Arsenal
The youngest player on this list, Nwaneri has patiently earned more senior minutes under Mikel Arteta. His technical skill and composure in the final third suggest Arsenal have another star academy graduate on their hands.
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5. Rico Lewis – Manchester City
Guardiola has trusted Lewis across multiple positions, and the youngster has repaid that faith with consistently mature performances. His adaptability and football IQ make him a long-term fixture for both club and country.
4. Milos Kerkez – Liverpool
Kerkez impressed at Bournemouth and is now being groomed as a successor to Andy Robertson at Liverpool. With two starts under Arne Slot already, the left-back’s development is clearly being prioritized.
3. Adam Wharton – Crystal Palace
Wharton transformed Crystal Palace’s midfield following his January arrival. Calm on the ball and sharp in transition, the 21-year-old is a perfect fit for Oliver Glasner’s high-intensity system.
2. Myles Lewis-Skelly – Arsenal
The 18-year-old defender broke into Arsenal’s first team and made an immediate impact with his tenacity and tactical discipline. His maturity has even drawn attention from England selectors ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
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1. Carlos Baleba – Brighton & Hove Albion
Baleba has become the latest breakout star from Brighton’s talent pipeline. Acting as the midfield anchor, the Cameroonian international is drawing interest from Europe’s elite, and could be the club’s next nine-figure transfer.
