Ranking the 10 best U-21 players in world football right now

Nnanna
These players have the world at their feet.
These players have the world at their feet.

#4 Bukayo Saka | 20 y.o, Arsenal

Brighton & Hove Albion v Arsenal - Premier League
Brighton & Hove Albion v Arsenal - Premier League

Making a name for himself as one of the most versatile youngsters in the modern game, Bukayo Saka is a prodigy for Gooners to swoon on. His consistency on the field has been vital for Mikel Arteta. But the moments of brilliance he has produced have occasionally meant the world to Arsenal fans, who are upset to see the club dwindling in mid-table obscurity.

However, if anyone can revitalize the club's standing in the Premier League, it would be Bukayo Saka. Hs incisiveness and creativity has made Saka the youngest utility player England has seen since the turn of the decade.

Whether he's cutting in from the right-wing or flinging in pin-point crosses from the left, the star has all it takes to be on the biggest stage in world football.


#3 Phil Foden | 21 y.o, Manchester City

Liverpool v Manchester City - Premier League
Liverpool v Manchester City - Premier League

It might not have La Masia's notable reputation, but Manchester City's academy has churned out a brilliant player in Phil Foden. His rise to Pep Guardiola's starting XI has been nothing short of astronomical. Although he came to the fore as a young teenager, the star has impressed season after season. He has set up his place as a key figure for the Cityzens in their plans for football domination.

Last season, Foden showcased his best numbers yet, directly contributing to 20 goals in the Premier League and Champions League. He already has two goals and two assists from just three games this season as well. If he continues at this break-neck pace, there's little holding Foden back from singlehandedly winning every award football has to offer.

#2 Alphonso Davies | 20 y.o, Bayern Munich

SpVgg Greuther Fürth v FC Bayern München - Bundesliga
SpVgg Greuther Fürth v FC Bayern München - Bundesliga

Taking over David Alaba's left-back mantle in Bavaria is difficult. Doing it before turning 19 is nearly impossible. But that's exactly what Alphonso Davies has done.

The youngster provided MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps FC with a stunning display, scoring eight goals and assisting nine. His performances were enough for Bayern Munich, who picked the youngster up and threw him right into the first-team.

Within two seasons, Alphonso Davies had gone from teenage prodigy to Champions League winner. His exuberance and effortless marauding down the left-flank was a show of full force in Bayern's 8-2 win against Barcelona. He has remained vital for the Bavarians in the attack.

As long as he keeps up his tremendous pace and high work rate during defending spells as well, the world of football may bow to the youngster soon enough.


#1 Erling Haaland | 21 y.o, Borussia Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund v 1. FC Union Berlin - Bundesliga
Borussia Dortmund v 1. FC Union Berlin - Bundesliga

If the towering Norwegian didn't make this list, no one else would. Showcasing his talent, pace and clinical finishing from his teenage years, Erling Haaland quickly became the most sought-after youngster in the world.

Ever since he made the move to Borussia Dortmund, the star has gone from strength to strength. He has powered the team ahead with amazing goals and brilliant all-round performances.

Erling Haaland is Zlatan Ibrahimovic reborn: physically imposing, tactically aware, consistent all season long, and absolutely ruthless in front of goal.

However, one might argue that Haaland is even better than the Swede was at age 21. After all, 27 goals in 28 appearances was something Ibrahimovic only pulled off in his prime. Haaland is just getting started, and it's scary to imagine just how potent the star striker can get by age 27.

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Edited by Aditya Singh
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