5 Top young footballing talents to look out for

Young prodigies are a prized asset in all walks of life, some would argue that they are much more key in Sports as the career of a typical sportsperson is a lot shorter. Add to this the amount of investment by big corporates and governments in Sports, the issue of identifying talent at a young age is absolutely key to long-term gain.

In the case of football especially, facilitating grassroots development and supporting young players is key to the economics as well as the quality of the sport itself. We take a look at 5 teenage players who have shone through the youth levels and are ready to be the next generation of stars for their clubs. Only players born in 1999 and after are considered.

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#5 Matthjis De Ligt (Centre Back)

The Total Defender from Ajax

DOB:12 August 1999

Club: Ajax

Having one of these without a case for Ajax youth products seems impossible owing to their well-oiled youth system which has been churning out stars from time immemorial. The 1.88m stopper is not only a physical specimen which is ideal for his role on the pitch, going by true dutch traditions he is extremely confident on the ball.

He is not only a great player but also considered one of the leaders in the dressing room for Ajax, belying his tender age. If things go as planned, he might be the Best Defender in the world for years to come.

#4 Kai Havertz (Midfielder)

A cross between Ballack and Ozil.

DOB: 11 June 1999

Club: Bayer Leverkusen

Even though his style is inspired by Mesut Ozil, a more apt description of his style would be if it is compared to Michael Ballack. In a world where small, diminutive playmakers are the trend, he is a refreshing break away from the mold at his imposing 6ft 2 inches which makes him dominant in the air and he is an equally brilliant player with the ball at his feet.

He is a regular for the Leverkusen team and has already racked up more than 50 appearances for the senior team. Starting to get in the German national team fold, he is surely special.

#3 Phil Foden (Midfielder)

Foden could be England's shining light.

DOB: 28 May 2000

Club: Manchester City

One of Guardiola's prized projects, one of the stars of the U-17 World Cup, and a probable solution to all of England's creative issues going ahead. Phil Foden is the face of the changing culture of City's youth system. Looking at him play, he is a direct replacement to David Silva with more of an eye for goal.

He is a mercurial dribbler, excellent passer of the ball and a surprisingly tenacious player. One to keep an eye on if he gets the first team minutes promised by Pep.

#2 Jadon Sancho (Winger)

Manchester City seemed to have missed a trick with the now Dortmund player.

DOB: 25 March 2000

Club: Borrusia Dortmund

The assist king is a true winger and his performances in the Bundesliga have sent the proverbial tongues wagging in anticipation of what he can achieve. The €8 million Dortmund shelled out for the then 17-year old seems like a sound investment now.

He is believed to be way ahead of what his age suggests and is touted for glory sooner rather than later.

#1 Justin Kluivert (Winger)

Justin looks set to carry on the Kluivert legacy

DOB :5 May 1999

Club : AS Roma

With a name like his, coming from the Ajax youth system and recently completing a move which could touch almost €20 million with all the add-ons.

He is an extremely talented dribbler, with real pace and is compared to Neymar. He seems completely unfazed by any expectations and has an air of knowing how good he is without letting it get to his head. Almost having a sense of responsibility towards the gifts he has. He idealizes Cristiano Ronaldo and believes Lionel Messi is the GOAT, if things carry on according to plan, he would soon join those names.