4 highly-rated young footballers who will need to prove their worth next season

Thiago Alcântara

With impressive box-to-box work, excellent ball control in the tightest of situations, ability to dictate the pace of the game and great leadership qualities, Thiago led his team to victory in the UEFA European U-21 Cup. A hat-trick in the final was a reward for his brilliant performance. Though he has been part of Barcelona’s main team for a while, Thiago has not been a first team regular. The Spaniard is close to a summer transfer to United, because of being frustrated by the lack of playing time at the Camp Nou. Thiago will be the missing piece in United’s midfield, and the 22-year-old can also fulfill his desire to get selected for the Spanish first team with the World Cup not far behind. Wherever he is, he will be a nightmare for the opposition.