Top 10 Rising Stars in Football for 2025

The sheer number of games in today’s football calendar means young stars have more opportunities than ever to make their mark. Managers are leaning on fresh talent to navigate the grueling schedules, and the best of the best inevitably rise to the top.

After watching their recent performances, analyzing the trophies they’ve won, their impact on both club and country, and considering their future potential, we’ve put together a list of the most exciting young footballers in the world. And yes, before you ask—some incredible talents like Gavi and Rico Lewis just missed out. Disagree with our picks? That’s part of the fun!

Here’s our list of the 10 hottest young players in world football right now.

10. Endrick (Real Madrid)

Every time a Brazilian wonderkid emerges, football fans take notice. And let’s be honest—Endrick is special.

At just 18, he’s already making waves at Real Madrid following his high-profile move from Palmeiras. His pace, power, and finishing ability make him a nightmare for defenders, and you just get the feeling he’s going to be a superstar for years to come.

9. Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United)

If you’re a Manchester United fan, you’ve probably had a tough few years. But one of the shining lights has been the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo.

This 19-year-old midfield maestro plays with a composure that belies his age. He’s calm under pressure, intelligent with the ball, and has quickly become a key part of England’s setup. United may still be figuring things out, but Mainoo? He’s already looking like the real deal.

8. Warren Zaïre-Emery (PSG)

Some players just have that aura about them—like they were born to dominate the midfield. That’s Warren Zaïre-Emery.

Despite only turning 18 in March, he’s already racked up more than 80 appearances for PSG. That kind of trust from his coaches tells you everything you need to know. A midfield enforcer with an eye for a pass, he’s set to be a trophy magnet.

7. Arda Güler (Real Madrid)

Arda Güler’s time at Real Madrid has been a bit of a rollercoaster so far—big expectations, injuries, and serious competition for a starting spot. But don’t let that fool you.

This 19-year-old Turkish playmaker has dazzling feet and a killer instinct in front of goal. When he’s fit and firing, you can see why Madrid made the investment. The best is yet to come.

6. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)

Some players just ooze class, and Florian Wirtz is one of them.

The 21-year-old was instrumental in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten Bundesliga campaign in 2023/24. His dribbling, vision, and ability to find the net make him a dream for any attacking side. Don’t be surprised if one of Europe’s elite clubs comes knocking with a monster bid soon.

5. Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid)

Camavinga isn’t just one of the best young midfielders—he’s already one of the best midfielders, period.

The Frenchman is a manager’s dream: he can play anywhere across the midfield, is incredibly composed under pressure, and has already won multiple Champions League and La Liga titles. And he’s still only 22. Ridiculous.

4. Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)

There’s something electric about watching Jamal Musiala in full flow. He’s direct, fearless, and just keeps getting better.

After sharing the Golden Boot at Euro 2024 and making the Team of the Tournament, he’s firmly established himself as one of the most dangerous attacking midfielders in the game. Almost 200 appearances for Bayern Munich at just 21? That says it all.

3. Pedri (Barcelona)

Pedri has been so good for so long that it’s easy to forget he’s still only 22.

Since winning the Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy in 2021, he’s continued to boss Barcelona’s midfield. With his vision, intelligence, and work rate, it’s no wonder he’s drawn comparisons to some of the club’s all-time greats. And the scary part? He’s still got at least a decade at the top level ahead of him.

2. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

If you could build the perfect midfielder, you’d probably end up with something close to Jude Bellingham.

The 21-year-old is an absolute Rolls Royce of a footballer—graceful, powerful, and relentless. He scores goals, drives his team forward, and puts in the hard yards defensively. England’s midfield is in safe hands for the next decade.

1. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

Remember the name—Lamine Yamal isn’t just the best young player in the world right now, he might be the most exciting teenager we’ve seen in years.

The 17-year-old has already cemented himself as a key player for both Barcelona and Spain. He’s rapid, skillful, and fearless—everything you want in a winger. And after playing a starring role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, it’s clear he’s only scratching the surface of his potential.

Who is the Best Young Player in the World?

Right now, it’s Lamine Yamal. No doubt about it.

At just 17, he’s already playing like a seasoned pro. Barcelona have a serious gem on their hands, and if he stays injury-free, there’s no telling how far he can go. Messi comparisons are inevitable, but Yamal is carving out his own legacy—one dazzling performance at a time.