The year 2019 witnessed the emergence of extraordinary young talents in the world of football, setting the stage ablaze with their exceptional skills and potential. These future stars captivated fans globally with their dazzling performances and left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. Let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and revisit the best young football players who took the world by storm in 2019.
The Criteria for Selection
Before we delve into the list, it’s essential to understand the criteria used to identify these exceptional young players. Factors considered include:
- Age: Players must have been 21 years old or younger at the start of 2019.
- Performance: Consistent displays of skill, tactical awareness, and impact at both club and international levels were paramount.
- Potential: The players’ long-term prospects and ability to develop into world-class talents were carefully assessed.
The Top Young Football Players of 2019
This list is a testament to the exceptional pool of talent that graced the world stage in 2019. Here are some of the standout names:
1. Kylian Mbappé (France, Paris Saint-Germain)
Kylian Mbappe celebrates a goal
The French phenom continued his meteoric rise in 2019, solidifying his position as one of the most electrifying players on the planet. His blistering pace, clinical finishing, and ability to create scoring opportunities out of thin air made him a constant threat to any defense. Mbappé’s performances for Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team were nothing short of extraordinary.
2. Jadon Sancho (England, Borussia Dortmund)
Jadon Sancho dribbles past a defender
Jadon Sancho’s move to Borussia Dortmund proved to be a masterstroke, as the English winger blossomed into one of Europe’s most sought-after talents. His incredible dribbling skills, vision, and ability to both score and create goals made him a nightmare for opposing defenders. Sancho’s performances played a pivotal role in Dortmund’s impressive 2018-19 Bundesliga campaign.
3. Matthijs de Ligt (Netherlands, Ajax)
Matthijs de Ligt commands the defense
At just 19 years old, Matthijs de Ligt captained Ajax to a historic Champions League semi-final run, showcasing maturity and defensive acumen beyond his years. His strength, aerial ability, and tactical intelligence made him an insurmountable obstacle for attackers. De Ligt’s performances earned him a high-profile move to Juventus, where he continued to develop into one of the world’s best defenders.
4. João Félix (Portugal, Benfica)
João Félix burst onto the scene with Benfica, displaying an incredible array of skills that drew comparisons to his compatriot, Cristiano Ronaldo. His deft touches, creativity, and eye for goal made him one of the most exciting young prospects in world football. Félix’s performances earned him a record-breaking transfer to Atlético Madrid.
5. Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy, AC Milan)
Gianluigi Donnarumma makes a spectacular save
Despite his tender age, Gianluigi Donnarumma had already established himself as AC Milan’s first-choice goalkeeper and a rising star for the Italian national team. His exceptional reflexes, shot-stopping ability, and composure under pressure belied his years. Donnarumma’s consistent performances solidified his status as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in the world.
A Legacy of Brilliance
The year 2019 provided a glimpse into the future of football, showcasing a generation of incredibly talented young players destined for greatness. These rising stars captivated fans with their exceptional skills, tactical awareness, and relentless pursuit of excellence. As we look back, we celebrate their achievements and eagerly anticipate the next chapter in their remarkable journeys.