11 Up and coming Star players to watch out for in Europeans Top Leagues
As the European domestic soccer seasons kick off, it’s the perfect time to spotlight emerging talents ready to make their mark.
While the transfer window is open, many teams attempt to acquire players that might make the difference between winning and losing in every league.
Here are 11 players poised for a breakout season in 2024-25, spanning the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Ligue 1.
English Premier League
Amad Diallo
Age: 22 | Position: Forward | Club: Manchester United | Country: Ivory Coast
Since arriving at Manchester United for €21 million from Atalanta, Amad Diallo has faced a challenging journey. After loan spells at Rangers and Sunderland, where he emerged as the top scorer, Diallo’s return to Old Trafford was marred by a knee injury. However, after impressing in pre-season and starting the season opener against Fulham, Diallo is now firmly in Erik ten Hag’s plans. “The manager believes a lot in young players, and I hope this season he will give me a lot of game time, but it’s for me to prove myself in training and to start in the team,” Diallo shared, emphasising his determination to secure regular game time. This season will be crucial for the versatile forward as he seeks to solidify his place in the first team.
Morgan Rogers
Age: 22 | Position: Forward | Club: Aston Villa | Country: England
When Morgan Rogers joined Aston Villa from Middlesbrough last February, there were doubts about his ability to adapt to Premier League demands. However, those concerns quickly dissipated as Rogers showcased his talent, scoring in three consecutive appearances at Villa Park. This season, manager Unai Emery is exploring Rogers’ potential as a central striker, recognising his speed and finishing abilities. With the chance to earn his first senior England call-up, Rogers is set to be a key player for Villa.
Yankuba Minteh
Age: 20 | Position: Forward | Club: Brighton & Hove Albion | Country: Gambia
Yankuba Minteh’s move from Newcastle United to Brighton for £30 million raised eyebrows, but the young forward has already begun to justify the investment. Minteh’s speed and unpredictable movement make him a formidable winger, as demonstrated in his assist for Kaoru Mitoma against Everton. Brighton’s new manager, Fabian Hürzeler, praised Minteh’s impact, stating, “You saw it already in the pre-season… I wasn’t surprised he had this performance.” With Hürzeler’s tactics favouring pace and aggression, Minteh is poised for an explosive debut season in the Premier League.
Omari Hutchinson
Age: 20 | Position: Forward | Club: Ipswich Town | Country: Jamaica
Omari Hutchinson’s permanent move to Ipswich Town from Chelsea this summer could be a turning point in his career. Despite missing a chance to score against Liverpool on the opening weekend, Hutchinson’s pressing, touch, and vision make him a crucial asset for manager Kieran McKenna’s adaptable system. “He suits McKenna’s system perfectly,” ESPN said, highlighting Hutchinson’s potential to shine as Ipswich aims to avoid relegation.
Ethan Nwaneri
Age: 17 | Position: Midfielder | Club: Arsenal | Country: England
Born in Enfield to Nigerian parents and at just 17, Ethan Nwaneri has already made history as the youngest player to appear in the Premier League. After impressing during Arsenal’s U.S. tour, Nwaneri is poised for more opportunities under Mikel Arteta, particularly in cup competitions. Known for his driving runs and key passes, Nwaneri’s development will be closely watched as he navigates Arsenal’s midfield depth.
LaLiga
Marc Bernal
Age: 17 | Position: Midfielder | Club: Barcelona | Country: Spain
Despite Barcelona’s financial struggles, their La Masia academy continues to produce exceptional talent. Marc Bernal, a 6-foot-3 midfielder, has drawn comparisons to Sergio Busquets for his composure and maturity on the ball. With injuries sidelining key midfielders, Bernal has stepped up alongside Marc Casadó to help maintain Barcelona’s possession-based style. His rise is a testament to the club’s enduring commitment to nurturing young talent.
Álvaro Djaló
Age: 24 | Position: Forward | Club: Athletic Club | Country: Spain
Álvaro Djaló’s arrival at Athletic Club from SC Braga for €15 million was seen as a strategic move to replace the potentially departing Nico Williams. Djaló’s versatility allows him to play across the front line, and his impressive record in Portugal, including 16 goals in all competitions, suggests he could be a key player in Athletic’s push for a Champions League spot. A preseason injury has delayed his debut, but expectations are high for his return.
Bundesliga
Jeanuël Belocian
Age: 19 | Position: Defender | Club: Bayer Leverkusen | Country: France
Jeanuël Belocian’s move to Bayer Leverkusen from Rennes marks a significant step in his career. The 19-year-old center-back, known for his athleticism and left-footed precision, has already made an impact under Xabi Alonso. “Alonso loves his versatility,” a club source revealed, noting Belocian’s potential to become a cornerstone of Leverkusen’s defense. His performance in the German Super Cup win over Stuttgart underscores his readiness for the Bundesliga.
Oscar Højlund
Age: 19 | Position: Midfielder | Club: Eintracht Frankfurt | Country: Denmark
Oscar Højlund, twin brother of Manchester United’s Rasmus Højlund, is set to make his mark at Eintracht Frankfurt after a strong campaign with FC Copenhagen. A box-to-box midfielder with excellent vision, Højlund has the opportunity to develop under manager Dino Toppmöller and learn from World Cup champion Mario Götze. “Watch out for this tenacious Dane,” one observer noted, as Højlund looks to establish himself in the Bundesliga.
Serie A
Zion Suzuki
Age: 21 | Position: Goalkeeper | Club: Parma | Country: Japan
Zion Suzuki’s decision to reject Manchester United’s offer last summer in favor of first-team football has paid off. Now at Parma, Suzuki has already made a strong debut in Serie A, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities and composure under pressure. His rapid adaptation, including conducting his first news conference in Italian, reflects his intelligence and ambition. As Parma returns to Serie A, Suzuki could emerge as a key figure and the future No. 1 for Japan.
Ligue 1
George Ilenikhena
Age: 17 | Position: Forward | Club: AS Monaco | Country: France
George Ilenikhena is one of the most exciting young talents in Ligue 1. The Nigerian-born forward, who moved to France at a young age, made headlines with his match-winning goal for Royal Antwerp against Barcelona in the Champions League last season. Now at AS Monaco, Ilenikhena is eager to learn from teammates like Breel Embolo and Folarin Balogun as he continues his rapid ascent. “I get along very well with Breel and Balo’,” Ilenikhena said, highlighting the mentorship he is receiving. With his speed, aerial ability, and clinical finishing, Ilenikhena has all the tools to become a top striker in Europe.
These young stars are on the cusp of making a significant impact in their respective leagues. As the 2024-25 season unfolds, all eyes will be on these players to see if they can seize their opportunities and rise to prominence.
