Centre backs
Dayot Upamecano (RB Leipzig)
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Dayot Upamecano is another benefactor of the brilliant youth policy adopted by RB Leipzig and its sister club Red Bull Salzburg. The 18-year-old Frenchman was a part of Red Bull Salzburg’s squad from 2015 and went on to become a key player for the Austrian Champions this season before making a move to RB Leipzig in January.
The standout factor for the teenager is his composure and the ability to read the game so well at such a young age. He averages 3.37 interceptions per game and 6.89 clearances per game in the Bundesliga this season despite playing just 11 games!
Matthijs de Ligt (Ajax)
Matthijs de Ligt was promoted to the senior team only in October 2016 but has already caught the attention of people everywhere.
The 17-year-old defender was instrumental in Ajax’s run to the final of the UEFA Europa League starting 6 of the last 7 games in the tournament and coming on as a half-time sub in the other. His personality and charisma has already endeared him to the Ajax fans.
During the second half of the season, he became a starter in defence in both league and Europa games. In March, he made his debut for Netherlands senior team despite starting only two league games for Ajax before his international debut.
Aged just 17, there is plenty of time for this young man to become a fearsome defender.
