Judging the calibre of a young player is often a tricky task. Perceived potential has an important bearing in any consideration and is just one of the many parameters to consider when trying to quantify the ability of football’s young stars. To add a basis to what may be a leap of faith, it is useful to look back and trace the growth, or indeed lack thereof, in young players.
[Eligibility: As of 1st June 2016 – 21 years old and below for outfield players, 22 years old and below for goalkeepers]
Last Updated: 8th December 2017
KEEPER RANKINGS
Edition 1: Thomas Strakosha leads the way
Edition 2: Strakosha retains top spot
DEFENDER RANKINGS
Edition 1: French domination in defence
Edition 2: Jorge and Lenglet swap spots
MIDFIELDER RANKINGS
Edition 1: Carlos Soler starts on top
Edition 2: Van de Beek, Guedes and Ascacibar rise
FORWARD RANKINGS
Edition 1: Sanabria the surprise early front-runner
Edition 2: Leroy Sane on the rise