Numerous emerging talents in European football are already pivotal for their respective clubs. Let’s explore the most valuable starting eleven composed of players under the age of 21, as per Transfermarkt.
Most Valuable U21 XI
Goalkeeper: James Trafford – Burnley (£12.8 million)
The 21-year-old transferred from Manchester City to Burnley last summer, a move that reflected Manchester City’s high regard for him, as they set an asking price of £19 million.
His outstanding shot-stopping abilities and adeptness with his feet not only secured his move to Burnley but also earned him a spot among the top 20 most expensive goalkeepers in football history.
Right-Back: Rico Lewis – Manchester City (£32.5 million)
&w=707&quality=100)
Last season, the young right-back unexpectedly became a key player for Pep Guardiola’s team, resulting in the sidelining and eventual loan departure of Joao Cancelo, widely acknowledged as one of the best full-backs globally.
At just 19-years-old, he undoubtedly possesses a promising future, particularly under the guidance of Pep Guardiola’s coaching.
Centre-Back: Antonio Silva – Benfica (£38.5 million)
Regarded as one of the most promising defenders in Europe, the 21-year-old stands out as the best centre-back in Liga Portugal. This is due to his impressive combination of pace, strength, and exceptional passing skills.
A bright future awaits him, as several top clubs are rumoured to be considering him for a potential transfer in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Centre-Back: Levi Colwill – Chelsea (£47 million)
Despite experiencing a few loan spells, the young English defender has notably emerged as one of Chelsea’s standout defenders this season.
Having made his debut for the England national team in October last year, he will be hoping to convince Gareth Southgate to include him in the squad for the upcoming Euros this summer.
Left-Back: Nuno Mendes – Paris Saint-Germain (51.2 million)
Recognised as one of the best young fullbacks in Europe, the Portuguese talent drew attention from various clubs in 2022. Fortunately for PSG, they successfully secured his signature.
Mendes excels not only defensively but also enhances the team’s attack through overlapping runs, precise crosses, and creating goal-scoring opportunities.
Central Midfielder: Pedri – Barcelona (£77 million)
Pedri has long been acknowledged as one of football’s biggest talents. In his debut season in 2021, he played an astonishing 73 games, nearly breaking the record for the most matches played in a single season at only 18-years-old.
Barcelona expressed their strong valuation of Pedri by securing a contract extension with him in 2021, keeping him at the club until 2026. The deal incorporates a noteworthy release clause set at £855 million.
Central Midfielder: Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid (£154 million)
Jude Bellingham, the most valuable player in the XI, is not only considered the world’s top young talent, but is also recognised as one of, if not the best, player in the world for this season. The midfielder, born in Birmingham, has contributed to 29 goals in the 31 games he’s played so far this season.
There’s no question that he will strive to sustain his excellent form as the season concludes, especially with the Euros approaching in the summer.
Central Midfielder: Jamal Musiala – Bayern Munich (£94 million)
Ranked as the second most valuable player in the XI, Musiala is considered Germany’s top talent. His standout performance on the world stage during the 2022 World Cup and his pivotal role in Bayern Munich’s recent successes underscore his exceptional abilities.
With 10 goals and six assists this season, he currently stands as the Bundesliga’s top-ranked player in terms of market value, according to Transfermarkt.
Right-Wing: Lamine Yamal – Barcelona (£51.3 million)
At 16 years old, Lamine Yamal is the youngest player in the XI. Last October, he made history by becoming the youngest player ever to feature in an El Clasico at just 16 years of age. Furthermore, he set a record for the most La Liga goals scored before turning 17, tallying 4 goals.
Yamal received his first national team call-up in September of last year, and with the Euros on the horizon this summer, he will be aiming for another chance to represent his country.
Left-Wing: Jeremy Doku – Manchester City (£55.6 million)
Last summer, Manchester City secured the signing of the Belgian attacker, who has proven to be a dynamic presence on the wing for them this season. His explosive pace and technical ability on the ball make him a challenging prospect for defenders to handle.
Just like his Manchester City teammate Rico Lewis, who is also included in the XI, he has the chance to develop his game even more under the coaching of Pep Guardiola.
Striker: Rasmus Højlund – Manchester United (£51.3 million)
The Danish striker, who arrived at Manchester United during the summer transfer window, has proven to be a handful for defenders throughout this season.
Højlund has been involved in 15 goals in 30 appearances this season. There’s no doubt that United have acquired a player poised for an exciting future.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
