World Cup 2018: Young Players XI

Forwards

France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final

LW: Hirving Lozano

It may seem a long time ago now, but there was a time where Germany were considered one of the favorites as they looked to defend their title. However, the first and biggest blow to Die Mannschaft’s chances came at the hands of a 22 year old Mexican winger who plays in the Dutch Eredivisie. That winger was no other than Hirving Lozano, whose pace and skill on the counter-attack troubled an ageing German defence endlessly- culminating in a brilliant goal. Lozano continued his form later in the tournament, even as Mexico crashed out at the hands of Brazil.

ST: Aleksandar Mitrovic

It feels strange that Alexander Mitrovic is only 23 years old. Premier League fans have seen him struggle at Newcastle United, where he failed to live up to initial expectations. However at the World Cup, the Serbian striker was absolutely brilliant as his play was key for the Balkan team’s attacking strategy. Mitrovic is a giant (standing at 189cm) who effectively uses his aerial ability against Costa Rica, Switzerland and Brazil. While he only scored one goal, he was unlucky not to have scored more. Serbia’s future is bright if Mitrovic continues to improve.

RW: Kylian Mbappe

It almost feels like an insult to put Kylian Mbappe in this XI. This should be an XI meant for players who showed great potential at the tournament but still need to improve to be counted as one of the world’s elite players. Mbappe is indisputably one of the best in the world already as he proved in the tournament. The PSG winger’s pace, skill and footballing intelligence was crucial for France in their run up to the World Cup final as he provided goals for a team reliant on its defence. Mbappe may have been named the tournament’s best young player but he would have been equally deserving of the Golden Ball. The scary thing? He could qualify for this XI in the next World Cup- that’s how young he is.