Every generation of football brings fresh excitement—and 2025 is shaping up to be a year where the next wave of stars begins to shine. Across Europe, South America, and beyond, there’s a crop of rising talent poised to leave a mark on the world stage. Whether it’s in domestic leagues or international tournaments, the spotlight is about to shift.
In this post, we highlight the young players to watch in 2025, based on their recent performances, growth trajectories, and the potential to shape the future of football.
1. Lamine Yamal – FC Barcelona
At just 17, Lamine Yamal is already turning heads at Barcelona. The Spanish winger is a graduate of La Masia, and fans have been quick to draw comparisons with Lionel Messi—though that’s a heavy crown for any teenager.
What sets Yamal apart is his fearlessness on the ball and mature decision-making in the final third. With more first-team minutes expected in 2025, he’s undeniably one of the young players to watch in 2025 as Barcelona continue their rebuild around emerging stars.
2. Endrick – Real Madrid (on loan at Palmeiras)
Brazil’s latest wonderkid, Endrick, is set to officially join Real Madrid in mid-2024, but all eyes will be on him as he adjusts to European football. The 18-year-old forward has already shown elite finishing ability, pace, and composure beyond his years.
Madrid is known for nurturing Brazilian talent (think Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo), and Endrick could be next in line. His transition into La Liga will be closely followed, making him a key figure among the young players to watch in 2025.
3. Warren Zaïre-Emery – Paris Saint-Germain
Midfielders who can control tempo, break lines, and defend with maturity are rare at any age. Warren Zaïre-Emery is doing all that at just 18. PSG have high hopes for the Frenchman, and 2025 could be the year he steps into a more central role following potential midfield exits.
With experience already under his belt in Ligue 1 and the Champions League, Zaïre-Emery stands tall among the young players to watch in 2025—not just for club, but for France as well.
4. Alejandro Garnacho – Manchester United
A spark of flair in an often inconsistent Manchester United side, Alejandro Garnacho has already made a name for himself with his pace, directness, and knack for scoring big goals. The Argentine winger is still polishing the finer aspects of his game, but the raw talent is undeniable.
As United aim to rediscover their glory days, Garnacho’s development will be central to that journey. He’s a sure inclusion on any list of young players to watch in 2025, especially with Copa America and potential Champions League exposure ahead.
5. Arda Güler – Real Madrid
Arda Güler’s move from Fenerbahçe to Real Madrid created buzz not just in Turkey but across Europe. Although injuries have limited his minutes, the Turkish attacking midfielder has shown flashes of brilliance whenever he plays.
His vision, technique, and ability to unlock defenses make him a natural fit for Madrid’s fluid style. If he stays injury-free, Güler is one of the young players to watch in 2025, potentially breaking into the starting XI and becoming a household name.
6. Benjamin Šeško – RB Leipzig
Towering at 6’4″, Benjamin Šeško offers something different up front—height, strength, and aerial dominance, all paired with surprisingly quick feet. The Slovenian striker has adapted well at Leipzig, scoring crucial goals and drawing comparisons to Erling Haaland.
Big clubs across Europe are already circling, and a breakout year in 2025 could earn him a major move. Šeško’s development will be fascinating to watch, cementing his place as one of the young players to watch in 2025.
7. Rico Lewis – Manchester City
Under Pep Guardiola, players either thrive or get lost. Rico Lewis is thriving. Whether playing as an inverted full-back or a deep midfielder, the 19-year-old has shown remarkable tactical intelligence.
As Manchester City continue to evolve their playing style, Lewis is expected to see more consistent starts in 2025. His versatility and football IQ put him firmly on the radar as one of the young players to watch in 2025, especially for England heading into the Euros.
8. Desire Doué – Stade Rennais
France is a hotbed for youth talent, and Desire Doué is one of its brightest new faces. The Rennes midfielder combines agility, technique, and composure in tight spaces—an asset for any side looking to control possession.
At just 19, he’s already being scouted by Premier League clubs. If he continues his upward trend, Doué may not be at Rennes for long. He’s undoubtedly one of the more underrated young players to watch in 2025.
9. Arthur Vermeeren – Atlético Madrid
The young Belgian midfielder recently joined Atlético Madrid and is already impressing with his composure and passing range. Arthur Vermeeren has been dubbed “the next big thing” in Belgian football, and 2025 could be the year he steps into the limelight.
As he adapts to La Liga’s intensity, expect him to become a regular name in Diego Simeone’s plans. A natural deep-lying playmaker, Vermeeren is one of the young players to watch in 2025 who might surprise even the most seasoned fans.
10. Kobbie Mainoo – Manchester United
Kobbie Mainoo has quickly emerged as a key figure in Manchester United’s midfield. His ability to dictate the pace, tackle aggressively, and thread passes through lines has drawn praise from legends and pundits alike.
If he continues to develop under Ten Hag, Mainoo could be the next big English midfielder. His presence among the young players to watch in 2025 is well-earned, and his breakout feels inevitable.
Final Thoughts
The future of football looks bright—and fast. The young players to watch in 2025 are not only talented, but they represent the next phase of the sport’s evolution. Whether you’re a scout, a fan, or just someone who enjoys the beautiful game, keep these names in mind. You’ll likely be hearing them a lot more in the coming months.