4 young midfielders who have the potential to become the best in the world

3. Leon Goretzka

Goretzka may be the next big thing for Germany

German giants Bayern have secured the signing of Leon Goretzka, after competing against Barcelona, Manchester United and Liverpool. This alone should tell you the potential that Goretzka possesses; not many midfielders attract attention from Liverpool, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich at the same time.

Although his team Germany had a disappointing World Cup Campaign, that shouldn't be a negative for Goretzka, as he didn't have many opportunities to impress. However, in the international tournament where he did get an opportunity, he played a very key role, as Germany went on to claim the Confederations Cup.

There has been a decrease in the role of box-to-box midfielders in football. But Goretzka is precisely what describes that role.

He is only 23, but shows the maturity of an experienced midfielder. Moreover, he’s physically strong, which helps him impose himself over other midfielders when battling for the ball.

His talent is so greatly appreciated that he was made the vice-captain at Schalke even though he was only 22.

Goretzka’s primary role is to transition the defense into attack by bursting forward with the ball when possession is retained, and launching quick counter-attacks. His dribbling skills are quite good, which is unusual for a player of his physical stature.

In 23 appearances last season, Goretzka created 18 chances. He also maintained a passing percentage of 80%, even though his average pass length was a whopping 18 meters. Moreover, although he often uses his physical strength on the pitch, he only got three yellow cards the entire season.

Goretzka also scores regularly, having netted six goals in his first 12 appearances for Germany, which is rather amazing for a box-to-box midfielder - or any midfielder for that matter. Goretzka's career has got the jump it needed by moving to Bayern, and if he lives up to his potential, he could be the next big thing in German football.