Golden boy 2025 power rankings: Football’s next generation of superstars

October 21, 2025 Oliver Obel

The battle to be crowned the best U21 player in Europe is reaching its decisive phase. From dazzling attackers to elegant playmakers and fearless defenders, the Golden Boy race reflects football’s next generation of global stars. Here’s a complete look at the top 25 power rankings for 2025, starting from No. 25 all the way to No. 1.

25. Victor Froholdt – Porto

The Norwegian midfielder has quietly impressed in Portugal with his composed passing and ability to control tempo. At just 19, Froholdt has already earned valuable minutes in the first team, showcasing maturity beyond his years.

24. Mamadou Sarr – Strasbourg

Sarr has grown into one of Ligue 1’s most reliable young centre-backs. His strong aerial presence and physical dominance make him a defensive rock for Strasbourg, attracting attention from bigger clubs.

23. Aleksandar Stankovic – Club Brugge

Aleksandar Stanković — Photo: www.clubbrugge.be

Stankovic stands out for his versatility, capable of playing both in defense and midfield. His tactical discipline and consistency have made him a crucial figure for Club Brugge this season.

22. Francesco Pio Esposito – Inter Milan

One of Italy’s brightest young forwards, Esposito has shown clinical instincts in front of goal. His movement and sharp finishing give Inter a promising attacking weapon for the future.

21. Jobe Bellingham – Borussia Dortmund

Carving out his own identity separate from his famous brother, Jobe is developing into a dynamic attacking midfielder. His power, confidence on the ball and ability to score make him one of Dortmund’s most exciting talents.

20. Senny Mayulu – Paris Saint-Germain

Mayulu has emerged as a smooth, technical midfielder with an eye for progression. At PSG, he has impressed with his vision and ability to dictate play from deeper areas.

19. Giovanni Leoni – Liverpool

The young centre-back has adapted quickly to English football. Leoni’s reading of the game and composure under pressure have made him a valuable option for Liverpool’s back line.

18. Archie Gray – Tottenham Hotspur

Gray’s versatility has been one of Tottenham’s biggest assets this season. Whether as a midfielder or a defender, his maturity on the ball and work rate stand out at such a young age.

17. Leny Yoro – Manchester United

Yoro has already proven himself as one of Europe’s top young defenders. His calmness, positioning and physicality make him a natural leader in United’s defense.

16. Rodrigo Mora – Porto

Mora’s sharp passing and ability to control games have made him a standout in Portugal. His intelligence in midfield suggests he’s destined for bigger stages soon.

15. Nico O’Reilly – Manchester City

O’Reilly has emerged as one of City’s most adaptable players, capable of playing in midfield or at left-back. His energy and tactical intelligence have impressed Pep Guardiola.

14. Lucas Bergvall – Tottenham Hotspur

The Swedish midfielder has grown into an elegant presence in Tottenham’s midfield. His technique, close control and maturity make him one of the Premier League’s most promising young playmakers.

13. Geovany Quenda – Sporting CP

Quenda’s explosive pace and skill on the wing make him a nightmare for defenders. With interest from Europe’s top clubs, his stock is rapidly rising in Portugal.

12. Jorrel Hato – Chelsea

Hato has adapted seamlessly to Premier League football. The young defender’s ball-playing ability and maturity have quickly made him a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge.

11. Arda Guler – Real Madrid

The Turkish playmaker’s technical brilliance is undeniable. Even in a star-studded Madrid squad, Guler’s passing vision and creativity continue to catch the eye.

10. Eliesse Ben Seghir – Bayer Leverkusen

Ben Seghir has developed into a dynamic forward capable of deciding matches with his flair and finishing. His move from Monaco to Leverkusen has only elevated his game further.

9. Estevao – Chelsea

Estêvão — NullReason, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Brazilian winger is already living up to the hype with his dazzling dribbles and fearless style. Chelsea fans see him as a future superstar, and his performances support that belief.

8. Franco Mastantuono – Real Madrid

The teenage Argentine has transitioned to European football with ease. His vision, technique and composure have earned him an increasingly important role in Madrid’s midfield.

7. Warren Zaire-Emery – Paris Saint-Germain

Already a key figure for PSG, Zaire-Emery continues to show maturity far beyond his age. His leadership in midfield and ability to dictate matches make him a legitimate Golden Boy contender.

6. Ethan Nwaneri – Arsenal

Nwaneri’s creativity and confidence have made him one of Arsenal’s most exciting young talents. His knack for finding space and scoring big goals has put him firmly in the spotlight.

5. Kenan Yildiz – Juventus

Kenan Yıldız — ErreRoberto / Shutterstock.com

Yildiz has become a decisive figure for Juventus with his technical quality and ability to step up in big moments. His development into a reliable attacking force makes him one of Italy’s brightest stars.

4. Myles Lewis-Skelly – Arsenal

Lewis-Skelly’s rise has been remarkable, combining athleticism and tactical intelligence. Whether at full-back or in midfield, he has been consistently outstanding for Arsenal.

3. Dean Huijsen – Real Madrid

Huijsen has emerged as one of the best young defenders in Europe. His composure, distribution and defensive dominance have earned him a key role at Madrid.

2. Pau Cubarsi – Barcelona

Cubarsi plays with the maturity of a veteran, dictating play from the back with flawless passing. A cornerstone of Barcelona’s future, his rise has been nothing short of sensational.

1. Desire Doue – Paris Saint-Germain

Doue has been a revelation for PSG, combining technical brilliance with a fearless mindset. After helping his club to European glory, the dynamic midfielder is the frontrunner to claim the 2025 Golden Boy award.