The 20 Young Players in the Bundesliga 2024–25 – Ranked
The Bundesliga remains one of the most exciting leagues for young talent, consistently developing stars who shine on the domestic and international stage. This season, a new wave of U21 players impressed with their performances, consistency, and maturity beyond their years. Here are the 20 standout youngsters of the 2024–25 campaign — starting from number 20.
20. Xavi Simons – RB Leipzig
Xavi Simons continued to dazzle with his creativity and technical brilliance. His ability to dictate the rhythm in attacking midfield made him a crucial part of Leipzig’s system.
19. Michael Olise – Bayern Munich
Olise added a new dimension to Bayern’s attack with his flair and quick decision-making. His agility and vision made him a constant threat in the final third.
18. Benjamin Šeško – RB Leipzig
Šeško made his mark with intelligent movement and clinical finishing. His presence in the box and link-up play stood out throughout the season.
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17. Hugo Ekitiké – Eintracht Frankfurt
Ekitiké impressed with his pace, composure, and ability to beat defenders. His performances showed maturity and confidence in front of goal.
16. Omar Marmoush – Eintracht Frankfurt
Marmoush brought energy and directness to Frankfurt’s frontline. His dribbling and relentless pressing made him a nightmare for defenders.
15. Brajan Gruda – Mainz 05
Gruda burst onto the scene with fearless attacking runs and sharp finishing. He proved to be one of the most exciting young forwards in the league.
14. Max Rosenfelder – Freiburg
Rosenfelder showed great composure in central defence despite his age. His positioning and timing in duels were highlights of a steady season.
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13. Assan Ouédraogo – RB Leipzig
Ouédraogo displayed confidence and creativity in midfield, often dictating play with maturity. His ball control and tactical awareness stood out.
12. Jonas Ullrich – Borussia Mönchengladbach
Ullrich impressed as a modern full-back with his overlapping runs and defensive solidity. He adapted quickly to the demands of top-flight football.
11. Nick Woltemade – Stuttgart
Woltemade had a breakout season as a powerful and smart striker. His positioning and finishing instincts helped his team in crucial moments.
10. Oscar Højlund – Eintracht Frankfurt
Højlund became a dependable figure in midfield, bringing calmness and control. His work rate and technical skill made him a valuable asset in tight games.
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9. Johan Manzambi – Freiburg
Manzambi stepped up from the second team and instantly made an impact. With goals, assists, and strong midfield presence, he proved his top-tier quality.
8. Jean-Mattéo Bahoya – Eintracht Frankfurt
Bahoya showed versatility by playing effectively on both wings. His speed and creativity provided Frankfurt with an extra edge in attack.
7. Bence Dárdai – Wolfsburg
Dárdai adapted quickly to life at Wolfsburg, bringing flair and vision in the final third. His playmaking ability and sharp passing caught plenty of attention.
6. Paul Wanner – Bayern Munich
Wanner thrived during his loan spell, displaying versatility across multiple positions. His composure and eye for goal made him stand out.
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5. Hugo Larsson – Eintracht Frankfurt
Larsson became a key figure in midfield, showing incredible stamina and intelligence. His contributions on both ends of the pitch were vital to Frankfurt’s season.
4. Antonio Nusa – RB Leipzig
Nusa delivered exciting moments with his speed and dribbling on the flank. Even after an injury setback, his impact when fit was undeniable.
3. Finn Jeltsch – Stuttgart
Jeltsch quickly adjusted to Bundesliga level with commanding displays at the back. His maturity, aerial ability, and leadership were impressive for his age.
2. Jamie Gittens – Borussia Dortmund
Gittens proved to be a dynamic winger with an eye for goal and ability to cut inside dangerously. His adaptability and explosiveness gave Dortmund a crucial outlet.
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1. Tom Bischof – Hoffenheim
Bischof delivered consistently brilliant performances in midfield. His mix of creativity, determination, and tactical understanding made him one of the standout young players of the season.
