The 25 Best Young Players in World Football – Ranked
Youth is dominating world football more than ever before, with some of the most exciting talents already making waves at the highest level. From teenage prodigies to 21-year-old leaders, this list showcases the 25 best players aged 21 or under based on current impact and long-term potential. Starting from number 25, here are the stars of tomorrow already shining today.
25. Kendry Paez – Chelsea, 18
Ecuadorian midfielder Kendry Paez joined Chelsea from Independiente del Valle in a high-profile move agreed when he was just 15. Known for his exceptional ball control and intelligence, Paez has shown glimpses of the world-class talent Chelsea invested in.
24. Estevao – Palmeiras (Chelsea-bound), 18
Nicknamed 'Messinho', Estevao is considered Brazil’s best young prospect since Neymar. Chelsea have secured a major talent whose flair and technique have dazzled fans at the Club World Cup.
23. Oscar Bobb – Manchester City, 21
Breaking into Manchester City's star-studded attack is no small feat, but Bobb managed to make an impression during the 2023-24 season. The Norwegian winger has showcased excellent technical ability and positional awareness.
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22. Conor Bradley – Liverpool, 21
Thrown into Liverpool’s first team in place of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Bradley has looked composed and confident. His physical and tactical maturity suggest he can become a long-term starter for club and country.
21. Rico Lewis – Manchester City, 20
A versatile defender, Rico Lewis has impressed in Pep Guardiola’s system with his intelligence and adaptability. Having already debuted for England, Lewis seems poised for a key role in City’s future plans.
20. Alejandro Garnacho – Manchester United, 20
The Argentine winger became a fan favorite at Old Trafford with his fearless dribbling and high energy. Despite uncertain future at United, Garnacho’s raw talent remains undeniable.
19. Marc Casado – Barcelona, 21
Emerging from La Masia, Casado is the latest midfield gem to grace Barcelona’s ranks. With his calmness in possession and tactical understanding, he’s a natural heir to the likes of Busquets.
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18. Aleksandar Pavlovic – Bayern Munich, 21
A modern defensive midfielder, Pavlovic combines maturity with forward-driving runs. Despite injury setbacks, he remains a central figure in Vincent Kompany’s Bayern setup.
17. Leny Yoro – Manchester United, 19
The French defender caught attention at Lille and earned a move to Manchester United. Strong in the air and composed with the ball, Yoro is a standout performer despite a tough season for the club.
16. Ethan Nwaneri – Arsenal, 18
Thrown into the spotlight due to injuries at Arsenal, Nwaneri has thrived under pressure. The young attacker’s confidence, footwork, and goalscoring touch mark him as a serious talent.
15. Savinho – Manchester City, 21
Known for his flair and creativity, Savinho offers something different on the wings for Manchester City. His dazzling dribbles and flair defy the system’s rigid structure, making him a fan favorite.
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14. Dean Huijsen – Real Madrid, 20
Huijsen moved from Juventus to Real Madrid and is now seen as one of the top young defenders in Europe. His concentration and composure make him a modern centre-back with a big future.
13. Kobbie Mainoo – Manchester United, 20
Mainoo has shown maturity beyond his years in midfield for Manchester United. After breaking into the England squad, his reputation continues to grow despite recent form dips.
12. Myles Lewis-Skelly – Arsenal, 18
Able to play left-back or defensive midfield, Lewis-Skelly has emerged as a versatile and composed presence. His international debut goal for England was a fairytale start to his senior journey.
11. Gavi – Barcelona, 20
Gavi continues to be a key player for both Barcelona and Spain, combining intensity with technical excellence. Despite his small frame, his aggression and composure make him elite.
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10. Kenan Yildiz – Juventus, 20
Donning Juventus' iconic No. 10 shirt as a teenager, Yildiz has shown he has the mentality and flair to match expectations. Already a Turkish international, he plays with confidence and vision.
9. Warren Zaire-Emery – Paris Saint-Germain, 19
A midfield powerhouse at 19, Zaire-Emery is already a regular starter for PSG. His balance of strength, vision, and stamina has made him vital for both club and country.
8. Arda Guler – Real Madrid, 20
Guler, once called more naturally gifted than Messi by a youth coach, is a technical wizard. After a prolific spell in Turkey, he's now showing flashes of brilliance at Real Madrid.
7. Endrick – Real Madrid, 18
Already a Brazilian international with goals against England and Spain, Endrick is living up to immense expectations. His physicality, finishing, and movement make him a future superstar at Real Madrid.
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6. Pau Cubarsi – Barcelona, 18
A surprise breakthrough at Barcelona, Cubarsi has already earned a senior Spain cap. Intelligent and composed, he’s among the most promising defenders La Masia has produced in years.
5. Joao Neves – Paris Saint-Germain, 20
A complete midfielder, Neves impressed at Euro 2024 and secured a move to PSG. His ability to win back possession and dictate tempo makes him a midfield general in the making.
4. Rayan Cherki – Manchester City, 21
Lyon’s magician now at Manchester City, Cherki dazzles with flair and has matured in end product. His creativity and dribbling make him one of Europe’s most feared attacking threats.
3. Desire Doue – Paris Saint-Germain, 19
After starring in the Champions League final, Doue has proven he’s more than hype. The former Rennes prodigy is a key part of PSG’s post-Mbappe era.
2. Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid, 21
Already a global star, Bellingham led Real Madrid to league and Champions League glory. Mature, technical, and dominant, he’s cemented his place among the world’s elite.
1. Lamine Yamal – Barcelona, 17
At just 17, Yamal is already a regular starter for Barcelona and Spain, drawing Messi comparisons. With maturity far beyond his age, he’s widely seen as football’s next great phenomenon.
