5 Incredible young players having a breakthrough 2018/2019 season

Modified Nov 16, 2018 06:57 GMT

Every season some players emerge who capture the minds and charm our hearts with fabulous performances. Sometimes, it’s established senior players who have consistently been at the top of their game. The likes Lionel Messi, C

istiano Ronaldo, Sergio Aguero, Eden Hazard, and Harry Kane.

Occasionally it’s senior players who have otherwise been on the fringes only to have a breakthrough season out the blues.

But then, there are times when young players emerge to dazzle, some still in their teens. Across Europe, the 2018/19 campaign is already showing some sensational younger players who may define the season.

For the last two seasons, Kylian Mbappé has been the undisputed wonder kid. After Neimar Jr. had carved a name for himself and settled into the established league of football bigwigs, Mbappé came to the limelight. The French teen sensation was discovered at Monaco in the 2016/2017 season, before switching to PSG on 31 August 2017.

Having already won the World Cup, it seems there’s no stopping Mbappé who is currently at the top of French Ligue 1 scoring charts, with 11 goals already in 13 games. For the 19-year-old, the Champions League is most likely the next thing on the agenda.

For our list of other young players having a breakthrough season in 2018/2019 club football, here are five names. All players below the age of 22, listed from oldest to youngest.

#5. Rodrigo Bentancur – Juventus (21)

Juventus started their season with unfortunate key midfielder injuries. But to Rodrigo Bentancur, that was a blessing in disguise. It gave him an opportunity for regular first team football.

Interestingly, Bentancur has turned out to be one of Juve’s most effective players this season. The young Uruguay international has taken to his role in with exceptional resolve, bravery, and skill, almost like a veteran.

#4 David Brooks - Bournemouth (21)

The Wales international arrived at Bournemouth in the summer for a fee of £11.5 million. Having partly sat on the bench at Sheffield United in the Championship, he wasn't even sure of the first-team action in the EPL.

Instead, he has exceeded all expectations. At the Vitality Stadium, Brooks hit the ground running and has since featured in 11 league games. His performances have been fabulous, including 3 goals and 2 assists.

The 21-year-old is technically gifted and his direct style on the ball, plus the ability to find space is something defenders dread.

#3 Pedro Porro – Girona (19)

The 19-year-old decided to stay with Girona, despite interest from some clubs who came knocking before the transfer window closed. Thankfully, that decision has paid off.

He is flourishing in his wing-back position and now stands tall in Girona’s backline which has been mostly watertight in La Liga, where goals naturally flow.

#2 Ibrahima Konaté – Red Bull Leipzig (19)

This season, RB Leipzig have the best defensive record in the Bundesliga. This is partly thanks to the services of the young Frenchman, Ibrahima Konaté, at the back. For a while, Dayot Upamecano and Willi Orban were the preferred pairing in Leipzig’s defence.

But Konaté is carving out a spot for himself as well. And going by his recent form, conceding no goal in Leipzig’s last three games, Konaté is one player to watch.

#1 Jadon Sancho - Borussia Dortmund (18)

Bought from Manchester City for £8 million in the summer of 2017, Jadon Sancho been so impressive at Borussia Dortmund. He has even earned an England call-up, something few would have expected for the 18 years-old, who couldn't quite make the cut at the Etihad. The Bundesliga has turned around his fortunes as he continues to dazzle with splendid performances.

At first, Sancho was mostly used as a sub but soon earned himself a regular starting spot. Along the way, he has scored four goals and racked up six assists along the way.

Edited by Nishant Jayaram