World Cup 2018: Top Contenders for the Young Player Award

#1 Gabriel Jesus (Brazil)

Gabriel Jesus is one of the most incredible stories in world football. When the 2014 World Cup was hosted in Brazil, this young lad was one of the boys who was painting the streets prior to the World Cup. Just 4 years down the line, he's going to realize his dream of wearing the Brazilian yellow in the World Cup stage in Russia.

Gabriel Jesus was discovered at a very young age when he was still playing in his native Brazil. He was signed from Brazilian club Palmeiras for a massive fee and immediately went about justifying the transfer fee and the trust placed in him by his manager Pep Guardiola. The 21-year old is one of those rare young players who has set the world alight with his performances for both club and country.

When it comes to international football, it is hard to think of any other youngster who is as crucial for his nation as Jesus is. Jesus has already scored 9 goals in 15 appearances and contributed to 7 goals and 3 assists in his first 10 games for the Seleção, all in the South-American World Cup qualifiers.

The influence that Gabriel has had is just immense, and he is now considered an important entity in Tite's lineup. He is likely line up at the front of a scary Brazilian attack that comprises of Neymar, Coutinho, Firmino, Willian and Douglas Costa.

After recent disappointments in the World Cup, Brazil head into this tournament touted as one of the top three favourites, and this talented forward will have a major role to play in Brazil's success.