5 players aged 20 or below with most minutes played in Europe this season

#3 Jude Bellingham - 1895 minutes

Bellingham is made for big things in the future.

There was never a doubt about Bellingham's ability when a club like Manchester United became interested in him so early in his career. However, Bellingham made a bold decision and followed Jadon Sancho by joining Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund. The primary rationale behind his move was guaranteed minutes and he has received precisely that at Dortmund.

Bellingham can play in several positions on the field but operates best as a central attacking midfielder. He has, however, played as a central midfielder in Marco Rose's system and has been an important member of the squad this season. Bellingham's development has been steady and his potential seems endless at this point.

With 34 appearances across all competitions, Bellingham has been one of the most-played midfielders at Dortmund. He has been an excellent performer, with six goals and 12 assists this season.

---

#2 Joris Chotard - 2123 minutes

A lot of big clubs will be in for Chotard

Montpellier seems to have a talent on their books in young French footballer Joris Chotard. The midfielder has been a great performer in Ligue 1 and has impressed many with his performances.

Like Bellingham, Chotard can play in several positions as a midfielder. However, unlike Bellingham, Chotard's acumen lies in his defensive work as he uses his technical abilities to win the ball. Chotard is also great at carrying the ball and connecting the defense and the attack.

Chotard has just one assist this season, but the stat undermines his actual contributions throughout the campaign. Nevertheless, he has made 27 appearances so far and has a bright future ahead of him.

---

#1 William Saliba - 2250 minutes

Saliba has been a defensive rock this season

Arsenal haven't been on the better side of statistics defensively, and, strangely, William Saliba has been sent out on loan this season. Mikel Arteta reportedly felt that Saliba wasn't ready to start at Arsenal. However, he has arguably been Marseille's best defender this season.

Saliba has shown the maturity and calm mostly displayed by senior defenders. He quickly identifies threats in matches and closes down opponents. He has also been effective with the ball at his feet.

Saliba has been consistent and has been heavily involved in first-team affairs. He has started almost the entirety of all the Ligue 1 games he has played and has appeared in 35 matches across all competitions.