2025 has arrived so it is only right to recap the best international young prospects of the 2024/25 season. Young talent is the lifeblood of football, fueling the sport’s continuous evolution and delighting fans with fresh promise. The 2024/25 season has already revealed a glittering array of prodigies destined to shape the future of the game. Here, we dive into ten of the most exciting young prospects, each of whom has demonstrated immense potential and earned their place in the spotlight.
Top 10 Young Prospects (2024/25 Season)
1. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
Despite his meteoric rise, Bellingham is still only 21 years old. The English midfielder has already established himself as a generational talent, combining creativity, tactical intelligence, and goal-scoring prowess. In the 2024/25 season, he continues to dominate La Liga and the Champions League with maturity beyond his years. His ability to influence games both offensively and defensively has drawn comparisons to legends like Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard. With 15 goals and 10 assists across all competitions by mid-season, Bellingham’s consistency ensures he remains a key player for club and country.
2. Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig)
The Dutch playmaker has flourished since joining Leipzig. At 21, Simons boasts incredible dribbling, vision, and versatility. Having already contributed 12 goals and 8 assists this season, he’s established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting young players. Simons’ ability to operate as both a central midfielder and a wide attacker makes him a nightmare for opposition defenses. His work rate and tactical adaptability also endear him to managers, with many tipping him to become a future Ballon d’Or contender.
3. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
The 17-year-old Barcelona winger has dazzled with his technical skill and flair. Despite his youth, Yamal is a key part of Xavi’s plans and is tipped to become one of the world’s best. His record-breaking debut season saw him net crucial goals and provide several assists in high-stakes matches. Yamal’s composure in front of goal and ability to take on defenders one-on-one have made him a fan favorite. He’s already a regular starter in La Liga and the Champions League, signaling a bright future ahead.
4. Rasmus Højlund (Manchester United)
At 21, Højlund is quickly becoming a talismanic figure for Manchester United. The Danish striker’s pace, physicality, and eye for goal make him a nightmare for defenders. His eight goals in the Premier League and four in the Champions League showcase his ability to perform on the biggest stages. Højlund’s natural athleticism, coupled with his intelligence in the box, has led to comparisons with legends like Zlatan Ibrahimović. United’s reliance on him highlights his importance to their rebuilding project.
5. Gavi (Barcelona)
Already a household name, the 20-year-old midfielder combines tenacity and creativity. His ability to dictate tempo and win battles in the middle of the park makes him a vital cog for Barcelona and Spain. Gavi’s exceptional work ethic, combined with his technical skills, enables him to dominate opponents despite his smaller stature. This season, he has notched five goals and six assists in La Liga, further cementing his reputation as one of the best young midfielders in the world.
6. Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)
The Argentine winger has burst onto the scene with electric pace and an eye for goal. At just 20, Garnacho’s direct style has made him one of United’s key attacking threats. With five goals and seven assists this season, Garnacho’s contributions have often come at crucial moments. His fearless approach to taking on defenders, combined with his improving decision-making, has seen him earn comparisons to United greats like Ryan Giggs.
7. Endrick (Real Madrid)
Signed by Real Madrid as a generational talent, the 18-year-old Brazilian striker has shown glimpses of brilliance in La Liga. His agility, flair, and finishing ability make him a star in the making. With 10 goals in all competitions this season, Endrick has shown he can handle the pressure of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs. His development is being carefully managed to ensure he fulfills his vast potential.
8. Rico Lewis (Manchester City)
The 19-year-old full-back has excelled in Pep Guardiola’s system. With impressive defensive awareness and ability to join attacks, Lewis has emerged as a key squad player for the reigning Premier League champions. His versatility has seen him play in various positions, including as a central midfielder, showcasing his footballing intelligence. Lewis’ performances in high-pressure games have made him one of the Premier League’s most promising youngsters.
9. Arda Güler (Real Madrid)
The Turkish midfielder has shown exceptional skill and creativity at just 19. Güler’s composure and vision in midfield hint at a glittering future. This season, he has been a revelation for Madrid, contributing with important goals and assists. His knack for unlocking defenses with precise passes has drawn comparisons to Luka Modrić.
10. Benjamin Šeško (RB Leipzig)
Standing tall at 6’5”, the 21-year-old Slovenian striker is a physical and technical marvel. His goalscoring ability has been crucial for Leipzig in the Bundesliga and Champions League. With 14 goals and 5 assists this season, Šeško’s combination of strength, speed, and finishing makes him one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards.
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