The 20 Latest Winners of the Golden Boy Award – Ranked

June 21, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Since 2003, the Golden Boy award has recognized the most outstanding under-21 footballer in Europe each year. Selected by top sports journalists across the continent, the honor has often predicted future legends, capturing players at the moment their potential bursts into stardom. From Lionel Messi's first flashes of brilliance to Lamine Yamal's dazzling rise, the list of winners reads like a who’s who of football’s modern era.

This article takes you on a journey through the last 20 winners of the prestigious award, from 2005 to 2024. Each name tells a story—not just of early promise, but of how raw talent, determination, and circumstance have shaped careers destined for greatness… or, in some cases, detoured from it.

2005 – Lionel Messi

In 2005, Lionel Messi was already showing signs of greatness as a teenage prodigy at Barcelona. Despite his small stature, his balance, dribbling, and creativity set him apart from his peers. Winning the Golden Boy was just the beginning of a career that would redefine football history.

2006 – Cesc Fàbregas

Cesc Fàbregas earned the award after becoming a central figure in Arsenal’s midfield as a teenager. His maturity, precise passing, and vision made him one of the most promising young players in Europe. He went on to enjoy a decorated career with club and country, including winning the World Cup with Spain.

2007 – Sergio Agüero

Sergio Agüero won the Golden Boy after making a major impact at Atlético Madrid. Known for his explosive acceleration and deadly finishing, the Argentine forward quickly gained a reputation as one of the most dangerous young strikers. His success only grew during a legendary spell at Manchester City.

2008 – Anderson

Anderson impressed enough at Manchester United to claim the 2008 Golden Boy award. The Brazilian midfielder combined flair and physicality and played an important role in United’s midfield rotation. While injuries and inconsistency limited his long-term impact, he still won several major trophies in England.

2009 – Alexandre Pato

Alexandre Pato captured the football world’s attention with his performances for AC Milan. Fast, technical, and clinical, he looked like Brazil’s next superstar. Unfortunately, recurring injuries disrupted his momentum and prevented him from reaching the career heights once expected.

2010 – Mario Balotelli

Balotelli’s raw talent and unpredictable nature made him a standout figure in 2010. His performances at Inter and then Manchester City showcased his physical power and knack for scoring crucial goals. Though often surrounded by drama, his potential was undeniable, and he left a lasting impression on football fans.

2011 – Mario Götze

Mario Götze was considered Germany’s most exciting young talent after starring for Borussia Dortmund. His intelligence, close control, and creativity made him the centerpiece of one of Europe’s most dynamic teams. His career peaked in 2014 when he scored the winning goal in the World Cup final.

2012 – Isco

Isco’s flair and playmaking ability for Málaga earned him the Golden Boy award in 2012. The Spanish midfielder stood out for his quick feet and inventive passes, quickly attracting the attention of Real Madrid. He would go on to be a key part of their Champions League-winning squads.

2013 – Paul Pogba

After leaving Manchester United to join Juventus, Paul Pogba exploded onto the scene in Serie A. His powerful presence, long-range passing, and shooting ability made him a unique midfield talent. Winning the Golden Boy in 2013 marked the start of a career that included a world-record transfer and a World Cup title.

2014 – Raheem Sterling

Sterling won the award after becoming one of Liverpool’s brightest young stars. His blistering pace, agility, and direct attacking style caused problems for defenders across the Premier League. He later became a consistent performer for both Manchester City and the England national team.

2015 – Anthony Martial

Anthony Martial's immediate impact at Manchester United, including a stunning debut goal against Liverpool, earned him the 2015 Golden Boy. The Frenchman showcased composure and acceleration that belied his age. Although his career has had ups and downs, his natural talent has always been evident.

2016 – Renato Sanches

Renato Sanches won the award after playing a vital role in Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph. His powerful runs, confidence, and energy in midfield made him a standout at just 18. Despite struggling at Bayern Munich, he revived his career with strong performances in Ligue 1.

2017 – Kylian Mbappé

By 2017, Kylian Mbappé had already become a global sensation thanks to his exploits with Monaco. His blistering speed, cool finishing, and maturity beyond his years made him a generational talent. He soon moved to PSG and helped France win the World Cup the following year.

2018 – Matthijs de Ligt

As Ajax captain at just 19, Matthijs de Ligt displayed remarkable leadership and composure. His dominance in the air, tackling, and tactical awareness earned him the 2018 Golden Boy. He later transferred to Juventus and then Bayern Munich, continuing his rise in elite football.

2019 – João Félix

João Félix won the award after a spectacular season with Benfica, where his flair and creativity caught everyone’s eye. His dribbling and instinctive movement made him one of Europe’s hottest prospects. Atlético Madrid broke their transfer record to sign him, although his development has had mixed reviews.

2020 – Erling Haaland

Haaland’s goal-scoring feats at Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund made him an unstoppable force. His physical strength, speed, and uncanny finishing ability made him a nightmare for defenders. He later took the Premier League by storm with Manchester City, smashing records along the way.

2021 – Pedri

Pedri won the award after a tireless and intelligent season for Barcelona and Spain. His ability to dictate play, find space, and keep possession under pressure was outstanding for a teenager. He played over 70 matches that year, becoming one of the most used and trusted young players in Europe.

2022 – Gavi

Gavi emerged as Barcelona’s next midfield jewel, combining grit and elegance in equal measure. His aggressive pressing, passing ability, and fearlessness stood out in both domestic and international games. The Golden Boy award confirmed his place among the best young players in the world.

2023 – Jude Bellingham

Photo: Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

Bellingham became the first English player in a decade to win the award after a standout year at Dortmund. His leadership, box-to-box energy, and knack for scoring big goals made him invaluable. A move to Real Madrid elevated him into the conversation for future Ballon d'Ors.

2024 – Lamine Yamal

At just 17, Lamine Yamal became the youngest player ever to win the Golden Boy award. With his dazzling dribbling, maturity on the ball, and creativity in tight spaces, he became a starter for both Barcelona and Spain. The football world is watching closely as his star continues to rise.