Top 10 Rising Stars in European Football for 2024
As European football continues to showcase world-class talent, a new generation of young players is making headlines across major leagues. These rising stars, each under 21, are already demonstrating immense skill, maturity, and the potential to shape the future of football. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 young talents lighting up European football in 2024, along with their stats and predictions for the future.
1. Florian Wirtz
- Club: Bayer Leverkusen
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Age: 20
- Stats: 8 goals, 12 assists (2023/24 season so far)
Florian Wirtz has become the creative heartbeat of Bayer Leverkusen. Known for his vision, quick decision-making, and flair on the ball, Wirtz is a playmaker who constantly creates opportunities for his teammates. His current season’s numbers demonstrate his knack for both scoring and assisting, making him a key figure in Leverkusen’s success. Many predict that he will soon secure a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs.
2. Lamine Yamal
- Club: FC Barcelona
- Position: Winger
- Age: 16
- Stats: 3 goals, 5 assists (2023/24 season so far)
At just 16, Lamine Yamal is already leaving an impact on Barcelona’s first team. With explosive speed, dribbling skills, and mature game sense for his age, Yamal has quickly become a fan favorite. As he gains experience, there’s no doubt that Yamal could be a cornerstone for Barcelona’s future attacking lineup, potentially filling the shoes of legends before him.
3. Arda Güler
- Club: Real Madrid
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Age: 18
- Stats: 2 goals, 4 assists (2023/24 season so far)
The Turkish prodigy has taken La Liga by storm with his technical ability, agility, and composure on the ball. Güler’s playmaking skills and versatility allow him to dictate the tempo of the game, and he’s already being compared to some of the league's best midfielders. As he grows, Real Madrid fans anticipate a long-term successor in their midfield.
4. Nico Williams
- Club: Athletic Bilbao
- Position: Winger
- Age: 21
- Stats: 6 goals, 7 assists (2023/24 season so far)
Nico Williams has become one of La Liga’s most electrifying wingers, with incredible pace, precision, and creativity. His consistent performances for Athletic Bilbao have also earned him international recognition. If he continues to develop, he could be a future star for both his club and the Spanish national team, with several clubs keeping a close eye on him.
5. Warren Zaïre-Emery
- Club: Paris Saint-Germain
- Position: Midfielder
- Age: 18
- Stats: 3 goals, 5 assists (2023/24 season so far)
Zaïre-Emery is one of PSG’s most promising young talents. Known for his physical presence and technical ability, he plays with maturity beyond his years. Already showcasing his defensive and passing prowess, Warren could be the future backbone of PSG’s midfield, especially as he gains more playing time among Europe’s elite.
6. Benjamin Šeško
- Club: RB Leipzig
- Position: Striker
- Age: 20
- Stats: 9 goals, 4 assists (2023/24 season so far)
Benjamin Šeško has been a revelation in the Bundesliga, with his strong physical attributes and goal-scoring instincts. Standing at 6’4”, he’s an imposing figure who uses his height and strength to dominate the opposition. His sharp finishing abilities have turned him into a sought-after striker, and he’s expected to attract interest from major clubs across Europe.
7. Kobbie Mainoo
- Club: Manchester United
- Position: Midfielder
- Age: 18
- Stats: 2 goals, 2 assists (2023/24 season so far)
Manchester United fans have high hopes for Kobbie Mainoo, a dynamic midfielder with excellent ball control and vision. Mainoo has been earning more minutes in United’s midfield and is regarded as one of the most promising talents in the Premier League. He is tipped to become a central figure at Old Trafford as he hones his skills.
8. Xavi Simons
- Club: RB Leipzig (on loan from PSG)
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Age: 20
- Stats: 10 goals, 8 assists (2023/24 season so far)
Xavi Simons has been thriving in Germany, showing incredible creativity, pace, and goal-scoring ability. His performances have earned him attention across Europe, and many expect PSG to recall him to their squad next season. Simons has the potential to be one of Europe’s leading midfielders, with his attacking flair and playmaking ability setting him apart.
9. João Neves
- Club: Benfica
- Position: Midfielder
- Age: 19
- Stats: 1 goal, 3 assists (2023/24 season so far)
João Neves has been a bright spot in Benfica’s lineup, showcasing incredible composure, tactical awareness, and passing accuracy. Known for his work rate and football intelligence, Neves has already drawn comparisons to Portugal’s top midfielders. As he continues to grow, many anticipate he will move to one of Europe’s top leagues.
10. Rasmus Højlund
- Club: Manchester United
- Position: Striker
- Age: 20
- Stats: 7 goals, 3 assists (2023/24 season so far)
Rasmus Højlund has quickly made a name for himself in the Premier League with his clinical finishing and athleticism. His direct playing style and goal-scoring prowess make him an invaluable asset for Manchester United, who look to develop him into one of the league’s top strikers. Højlund’s physical presence and ability to find the net have fans excited about his future.