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20 Best Young Players in the Premier League [Ranked]

20 Best Young Players in the Premier League [Ranked]
James Evans, Callum Bishop
77 – 98 minutes
Summary

The Premier League remains a home for promising young talents, with players like Adam Wharton and Malo Gusto making a mark at Crystal Palace and Chelsea respectively.
Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United have shown they could become world-class players in the future.
Other young talents that are thriving include Harvey Elliott of Liverpool, Rico Lewis of Manchester City, and Destiny Udogie of Tottenham.

The Premier League has long been home to some of the best talents in world football. From Eric Cantona to Thierry Henry, Didier Drogba to Cristiano Ronaldo, and more recently Mohamed Salah to Erling Haaland, England’s top flight has been star-studded ever since its rebranding in 1992.

That’s not to say that the division solely focuses on the biggest and brightest stars. English football has quite the track record when it comes to producing and developing some of the finest young talent in the game. Teams like Manchester United, Arsenal, and West Ham United have all, in different stages of their history, been home to some of the most promising prodigies in the sport.

Despite the money that floods into the competition every season, it hasn’t stopped clubs investing in their future. Whether that be through developing talent in their own youth system or taking a risk by bringing in unproven individuals full of potential, the Premier League remains the home of some of the next generation’s biggest names.

Here, we have taken a look at the Premier League’s best players at the age of 21 or under and whittled them down to a top 20. We have taken into account what they have achieved in their short careers so far, the potential they have, and the opportunities they have at their current clubs to develop.
Ranking factors

While compiling the top 20 list, the following was taken into account:

Appearances
Potential
Goals
Assists

The 20 best under-21 players in the Premier League

Position

Name

Club

Age

1

Kobbie Mainoo

Manchester United

19

2

Alejandro Garnacho

Manchester United

20

3

Rico Lewis

Manchester City

19

4

Destiny Udogie

Tottenham

21

5

Harvey Elliott

Liverpool

21

6

Savinho

Manchester City

20

7

Levi Colwill

Chelsea

21

8

Malo Gusto

Chelsea

21

9

Jhon Duran

Aston Villa

20

10

Adam Wharton

Crystal Palace

20

11

Rasmus Hojlund

Manchester United

21

12

Yankuba Minteh

Brighton

20

13

Jarell Quansah

Liverpool

21

14

Conor Bradley

Liverpool

21

15

Leny Yoro

Manchester United

18

16

Tino Livramento

Newcastle United

21

17

Oscar Bobb

Manchester City

21

18

Ethan Nwaneri

Arsenal

17

19

Milos Kerkez

Bournemouth

20

20

Lewis Hall

Newcastle

20
1 Kobbie Mainoo
Manchester United (19)
Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo celebrates scoring with teammate Scott McTominay.

The calm and composed teenage sensation tantalized Manchester United fans during the 2023 pre-season with assured displays against the likes of Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund. This saw Kobbie Mainoo rewarded with a start against Real Madrid. However, the 18-year-old would pick up an injury early on that ruled him out of the early stages of the campaign.

Upon his return, Mainoo has been settled in the middle of the park, a much-needed presence with the likes of Casemiro and Mason Mount missing through injury. Nothing seems to faze the Englishman, who has the potential to act as the next Michael Carrick for years to come.

His sensational displays in the heart of United’s midfield earned him his first call-up to the England senior team, which he took by the scruff of the neck, becoming Declan Rice’s preferred midfield partner at EURO 2024 and proving he’s naturally more talented in that area of the pitch than Conor Gallagher and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Over the summer, following a Man of the Match display in the FA Cup final where the 19-year-old bossed a park occupied by Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne to help United win their 16th Challenge Cup, many have coined England’s 2024 summer as one that was epitomised by ‘Mainoo Mania’.

Kobbie Mainoo’s Premier League statistics

Games

32

Goals

3

Assists

1
2 Alejandro Garnacho
Manchester United (20)
Alejandro Garnacho gives Everton wondergoal boots to delighted young Man United fan

The Argentine wizard has already produced some spectacular moments in the early stages of his career: a late winner against Fulham in 2022, two goals that sparked Manchester United’s comeback against Aston Villa a year later, and, of course, the Puskas-worthy overhead kick at Goodison Park.

With stiff competition on the wing, Garnacho has had to be patient in his pursuit for a run of starts. A couple of underwhelming games, and he may be at risk of losing his place in the team for a period. However, that hasn’t happened yet, and his dynamic nature is undeniably exciting and a breath of fresh air during what is a turgid time at Old Trafford. This shouldn’t be a surprise, though, given the fact that he has learned from both Lionel Messi and Ronaldo.

Alejandro Garnacho’s Premier League statistics

Games

66

Goals

12

Assists

7
3 Rico Lewis
Manchester City (19)
rico-lewis-manchester-city

We’ve seen it before, where Pep Guardiola falls in love with a new youngster and carefully guides them to hit the highest of heights. It worked out well for Phil Foden, and there’s little to no doubt that it will work out for Rico Lewis.

Despite being a member of a packed Manchester City squad, the teenager has become a fairly frequent appearance maker since stepping into the first team. He has taken advantage of the fact that he is perhaps at his strongest on the left side of defence, an area that seems to be City’s weakest, but he has filled in on the right and in the engine room too.

His performances have seen him make his England debut, and with fitness concerns always surrounding Luke Shaw and Ben Chilwell, along with no real young option besides him, he could well find himself a constant under Thomas Tuchel if he continues his development.

Rico Lewis’ Premier League statistics

Games

38

Goals

2

Assists

2
4 Destiny Udogie
Tottenham (21)
Destiny Udogie in action for Tottenham

It’s a little cheesy, but Udogie definitely has a bright destiny. At 21-years-old, and having just joined the Premier League along with Ange Postecoglou last summer, he is already rightly considered among the top three left-backs in England’s top flight at this present time.

Whether it’s defending at the back, or bombing forward with the ball at his feet, he’s been nothing short of electric, showcasing all the traits that make fullbacks world-class in the modern game. For a while, Tottenham struggled to find a replacement for Kyle Walker and Danny Rose, but in their young Italian, it seems they’ve found their staple for the next decade.

Destiny Udogie’s Premier League statistics

Games

37

Goals

2

Assists

4
5 Harvey Elliott
Liverpool (21)
Harvey Elliott

Liverpool have their hands on a midfielder who has the potential to light up Anfield for the next decade. Harvey Elliott became the youngest Premier League player when he made his debut at just 16 years old. Although that record has since been topped, so have Elliott’s accolades.

The Englishman has been a part of two domestic cup final victories for the Reds, and in 2023, he found himself becoming a pivotal super-sub for Jurgen Klopp’s men. An injury has limited his minutes so far in 2024/25, but the impact he has been able to make so far is promising and shows that he deserves his place in one of the top teams in the country.

Harvey Elliott’s Premier League statistics

Games

77

Goals

4

Assists

8
6 Savinho
Manchester City (20)
Savinho

A Manchester City summer signing in 2024, Savinho comes to the Premier League with a high ceiling, having scored nine goals and provided 10 assists on loan at Girona last season to help them qualify for the Champions League for the first time in the club’s 96-year history, finishing behind only Barcelona and Real Madrid in La Liga.

There were questions about whether he could replicate those performances in the Premier League, but the Brazilian winger has answered those doubts emphatically, becoming a key presence in City’s start to the 2024/25 season. Longevity holds him back, but if the electric wide man continues to shine, he could rise into the top five soon.

Savinho Premier League statistics

Games

7

Goals

0

Assists

2
7 Levi Colwill
Chelsea (21)
Chelsea defender Levi Colwill in action

A crucial part of the England U21 team that won the Under-21 European Championship just last year, Levi Colwill made a comfortable step-up into Premier League football last term with Chelsea, even captaining the side occasionally.

Still only 21-years-old, Colwill has made light work of getting to grips with England’s topflight, and he already has bags of experience to build upon in coming years. A left-footed defender is always a coveted asset, and now shining for Enzo Maresca in the heart of the Blues’ defence, Chelsea have the real deal in their academy graduate.

Levi Colwill’s Premier League statistics

Games

49

Goals

1

Assists

3
8 Malo Gusto
Chelsea (21)
Malo Gusto

Following his arrival from Lyon, many thought Malo Gusto would operate as Reece James’ back-up. However, following the latter’s injury woes during the 2023/24 campaign, the young French defender was handed an opportunity to impress in the first team – and he’s taken the chance with both hands.

Arguably one of the best in his position in the league right now, the versatile defender has shown that he’s an effective player in the final third while proving to be a real asset in his own box. His stunning performances for the Blues in the 2023-24 campaign saw him earn his first international cap with his beloved France back in October.

Malo Gusto’s Premier League statistics

Games

34

Goals

0

Assists

6
9 Jhon Duran
Aston Villa (20)
jhon duran

A few eyebrows were raised when Chelsea and West Ham made approaches for Jhon Duran during the 2024 summer transfer window, considering he had not set Villa Park alight just yet. But since the start of the 2024/25 season, the Colombian has been as in form as they come.

Regularly brought off the bench for Ollie Watkins whenever he tires or if Villa need a goal, Duran has come up with the goods whenever he’s been asked. Be it screamers against Bayern Munich in the Champions League or late winners against West Ham, interest in him is only likely to sky rocket, especially if Unai Emery can’t find room for him in the starting XI.

Jhon Duran’s Premier League statistics

Appearances

44

Goals

9

Assists

0
10 Adam Wharton
Crystal Palace (20)
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton in action

The arrival of 20-year-old Adam Wharton in January 2024 has since allowed the Eagles to spread their wings again. In many ways, the line-breaking, all-action defensive midfielder comes somewhat as Roy Hodgson’s parting gift, with new boss Oliver Glasner exacting the full potential of his young squad to cure them of their relegation headache and, instead, help Crystal Palace soar to a club-high 10th last season.

Palace haven’t started the 2024/25 season especially well, but if they are to bounce back, they will need their big players to step up. That includes Wharton, whose playing style is defined by his exceptional football intelligence. As a midfielder, he possesses the ability to dictate the flow of the game, make accurate passes, and create scoring opportunities for his team, with his box-to-box energy seeing him develop into a natural teacher’s pet.

Adam Wharton’s Premier League statistics

Games

24

Goals

0

Assists

3
11 Rasmus Hojlund
Manchester United (21)
Rasmus Hojlund celebrates

From the outside looking in (as well as by listening to any fan of the top six clubs besides Man United), you’d be forgiven for thinking Rasmus Hojlund has been a flop at Old Trafford. Yet, the statistics suggest otherwise. In 2023/24, he scored 10 goals and provided two assists for the Red Devils, with his impressive hold-up play and clinical edge going a long way in remedying United’s profligacy in recent times.

While Marcus Rashford and Antony have been woeful in that department and others around Hojlund have failed to pick out his promising runs in-behind, this should by no means be a negative reflection on the big Dane, who has done all the right things while those next to him have lacked selflessness. Now back to full fitness, he will be looking to make a difference for the Red Devils after a troublesome start to 2024/25.

Rasmus Hojlund’s Premier League statistics

Games

35

Goals

11

Assists

2
12 Yankuba Minteh
Brighton (20)
Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh celebrating

Yankuba Minteh has wasted little time in showing the Premier League exactly what all the hype is about. Newcastle really didn’t want to let their talented youngster go, but were forced to sell him to Brighton to comply with the league’s profit and sustainability rules. And the Magpies are now watching the 20-year-old tear teams apart for someone else.

While he’s only managed the solitary assist so far for the Seagulls, Minteh’s nimble footwork and electric speed has given clubs plenty of problems so far. He could be the latest gem to develop where Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and others once honed their craft.

Yankuba Minteh’s Premier League statistics

Appearances

7

Goals

1

Assists

1
13 Jarell Quansah
Liverpool (21)
Jarell Quansah of Liverpool

Jarell Quansah’s biggest compliment is that he’s made partnering Virgil Van Dijk look easy. Sure, with the help of the best centre-back on the planet, anything is possible, but while Joe Gomez, Ibrahima Konate, and Joel Matip have all come before him, the 21-year-old looks no less comfortable than his predecessors next to the colossal Dutchman.

The young Englishman might have lost his starting berth at the start of the new term, but there is plenty of time for Quansah to rediscover his best form and lay claim to the centre-back spot once again. He’s tall, fast, strong, and with a little extra guidance, he can easily surge up the rankings.

Jarell Quansah’s Premier League statistics

Games

18

Goals

2

Assists

0
14 Conor Bradley
Liverpool (21)
Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley celebrating

Liverpool have had some breakout stars over the years through their academy, with Conor Bradley being the latest. A right-back with a background as a winger, the youngster seemed to have a profile perfectly suited to Klopp’s style of play, and he’s been afforded the occasional minute under Arne Slot to help his development continue. Very at ease with the idea of attacking space and providing offensive presence, he represents a real threat to his opponents.

The 21-year-old put in many memorable performances for the club in the 2023-24 season, most notably in the Reds’ 4-1 win against Chelsea where he scored his first senior goal as well as providing two assists. The future looks bright for Bradley – who will no doubt be part of Liverpool’s plans for the foreseeable future after also playing a key role in the club’s Carabao Cup victory.

Conor Bradley’s Premier League statistics

Games

15

Goals

1

Assists

3

3:12
Liverpool academy star Conor Bradley

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15 Leny Yoro
Manchester United (18)
Leny Yoro vs Rangers (1)

The truth is, judging Leny Yoro before he’s made a single competitive appearance for Man United will prove far too difficult. A lot has been made of the fact he’s now the most expensive teenager in Premier League history and, with that, comes the burden of expectation.

However, given the fact United beat Real Madrid and Liverpool to his signature should say a lot in itself. What’s more, his stats from last season were comparable to the very best England’s topflight has to offer, but for now, comparisons should be locked away. Sure, he looks exceptional, but only time will tell whether he’s his club’s answer to the Van Dijk/Saliba debate.

Leny Yoro Premier League statistics

Games

0

Goals

0

Assists

0
16 Tino Livramento
Newcastle (21)
tino livramento

Having developed into a fine young right-back during his time in Chelsea’s academy, Tino Livramento decided it was time for a change. Moving to Southampton, he looked like a future England international before a nasty ACL injury kept him out of action for nearly a full year.

The Saints’ relegation allowed Newcastle to swoop in, and since joining the Magpies, Livramento has continued to go from strength to strength. Being able to learn off the experienced Kieran Trippier has only helped him more, and now, he is their first-choice right-back. Should he continue to shine for Eddie Howe, he might start to be recognised as one of the best full-backs the Premier League has to offer.

Tino Livramento Premier League statistics

Appearances

65

Goals

2

Assists

1
17 Oscar Bobb
Manchester City (21)
Oscar Bobb

Guardiola has unearthered several stars during his time at City’s academy, and Oscar Bobb has the potential to be just as special as Foden, Lewis, and all the rest. Handed a Premier League in September 2023, the Norwegian has gone on to rack up 13 more, also getting his first goal against Newcastle in January 2024.

It appeared that Bobb was set for a breakout season, but a fractured leg has deprived him of that for at least three to four months. When he’s back, the 21-year-old could take the Premier League by storm and fly up these rankings.

Oscar Bobb Premier League statistics

Appearances

14

Goals

1

Assists

1
18 Ethan Nwaneri
Arsenal (17)
Arsenal attacking midfielder Ethan Nwaneri celebrating

Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri is the youngest player on this list, but as we’ve seen with all of the above, age is no problem if you’re good enough. And the Gunners’ young star has talent in abundance.

Becoming their youngest ever debutant by coming on as a raw 15-year-old against Brentford back in 2022, Nwaneri has had to hone his craft over the years, patiently waiting for an opportunity to make a more consistent impact in the first team. 2024/25 has seen him pick up minutes as a substitute under Mikel Arteta’s tutelege, and fans have been impressed with what they’ve seen so far. He’ll have more opportunities in the cup competitions, and he showed what he’s all about with a fabulous strike in the Carabao Cup against Preston. If he can build on what he’s shown so far, Arsenal have a real gem on their hands.

Ethan Nwaneri Premier League Statistics

Appearances

6

Goals

0

Assists

0
19 Milos Kerkez
Bournemouth (20)
Milos Kerkez

Signed from AZ Alkmaar in the summer of 2023, Milos Kerkez has looked like an astute bit of business. Bournemouth hoped that the left-back could become a regular option for them in defence, and the Hungarian has done exactly that.

Making 28 Premier League appearances during the 2023/24 term, Kerkez has featured in all of the Cherries’ games in the new term. Andoni Iraloa clearly trusts him, and regular minutes will only see him become a better player. Still only 20-years-old, there is potential for him to become an excellent footballer in future years.

Milos Kerkez Premier League statistics

Appearances

37

Goals

0

Assists

1
20 Lewis Hall
Newcastle (20)
Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall celebrating

Having featured England’s youth sides from under-15 level all the way up to the under-21s, the future is certainly bright for young Lewis Hall. Not everybody who comes through the Chelsea academy is able to feature for their first team, and the 20-year-old managed to make 12 appearances.

But Hall wanted regular minutes, so when Newcastle came calling, it was an easy decision for him. Capable of playing in midfield but also at full-back, he has mostly been used on the left side of defence by Eddie Howe, but his versatility means he could fulfill other duties should the Magpies need him to – a valuable commodity indeed.

Lewis Hall’s Premier League statistics

Appearances

35

Goals

1

Assists

1

All statistics courtesy of the Premier League and Transfermarkt – Correct as of 31/10/24.
20 Best Young Players in the Premier League [Ranked]
James Evans, Callum Bishop
77 – 98 minutes
Summary

The Premier League remains a home for promising young talents, with players like Adam Wharton and Malo Gusto making a mark at Crystal Palace and Chelsea respectively.
Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United have shown they could become world-class players in the future.
Other young talents that are thriving include Harvey Elliott of Liverpool, Rico Lewis of Manchester City, and Destiny Udogie of Tottenham.

The Premier League has long been home to some of the best talents in world football. From Eric Cantona to Thierry Henry, Didier Drogba to Cristiano Ronaldo, and more recently Mohamed Salah to Erling Haaland, England’s top flight has been star-studded ever since its rebranding in 1992.

That’s not to say that the division solely focuses on the biggest and brightest stars. English football has quite the track record when it comes to producing and developing some of the finest young talent in the game. Teams like Manchester United, Arsenal, and West Ham United have all, in different stages of their history, been home to some of the most promising prodigies in the sport.

Despite the money that floods into the competition every season, it hasn’t stopped clubs investing in their future. Whether that be through developing talent in their own youth system or taking a risk by bringing in unproven individuals full of potential, the Premier League remains the home of some of the next generation’s biggest names.

Here, we have taken a look at the Premier League’s best players at the age of 21 or under and whittled them down to a top 20. We have taken into account what they have achieved in their short careers so far, the potential they have, and the opportunities they have at their current clubs to develop.
Ranking factors

While compiling the top 20 list, the following was taken into account:

Appearances
Potential
Goals
Assists

The 20 best under-21 players in the Premier League

Position

Name

Club

Age

1

Kobbie Mainoo

Manchester United

19

2

Alejandro Garnacho

Manchester United

20

3

Rico Lewis

Manchester City

19

4

Destiny Udogie

Tottenham

21

5

Harvey Elliott

Liverpool

21

6

Savinho

Manchester City

20

7

Levi Colwill

Chelsea

21

8

Malo Gusto

Chelsea

21

9

Jhon Duran

Aston Villa

20

10

Adam Wharton

Crystal Palace

20

11

Rasmus Hojlund

Manchester United

21

12

Yankuba Minteh

Brighton

20

13

Jarell Quansah

Liverpool

21

14

Conor Bradley

Liverpool

21

15

Leny Yoro

Manchester United

18

16

Tino Livramento

Newcastle United

21

17

Oscar Bobb

Manchester City

21

18

Ethan Nwaneri

Arsenal

17

19

Milos Kerkez

Bournemouth

20

20

Lewis Hall

Newcastle

20
1 Kobbie Mainoo
Manchester United (19)
Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo celebrates scoring with teammate Scott McTominay.

The calm and composed teenage sensation tantalized Manchester United fans during the 2023 pre-season with assured displays against the likes of Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund. This saw Kobbie Mainoo rewarded with a start against Real Madrid. However, the 18-year-old would pick up an injury early on that ruled him out of the early stages of the campaign.

Upon his return, Mainoo has been settled in the middle of the park, a much-needed presence with the likes of Casemiro and Mason Mount missing through injury. Nothing seems to faze the Englishman, who has the potential to act as the next Michael Carrick for years to come.

His sensational displays in the heart of United’s midfield earned him his first call-up to the England senior team, which he took by the scruff of the neck, becoming Declan Rice’s preferred midfield partner at EURO 2024 and proving he’s naturally more talented in that area of the pitch than Conor Gallagher and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Over the summer, following a Man of the Match display in the FA Cup final where the 19-year-old bossed a park occupied by Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne to help United win their 16th Challenge Cup, many have coined England’s 2024 summer as one that was epitomised by ‘Mainoo Mania’.

Kobbie Mainoo’s Premier League statistics

Games

32

Goals

3

Assists

1
2 Alejandro Garnacho
Manchester United (20)
Alejandro Garnacho gives Everton wondergoal boots to delighted young Man United fan

The Argentine wizard has already produced some spectacular moments in the early stages of his career: a late winner against Fulham in 2022, two goals that sparked Manchester United’s comeback against Aston Villa a year later, and, of course, the Puskas-worthy overhead kick at Goodison Park.

With stiff competition on the wing, Garnacho has had to be patient in his pursuit for a run of starts. A couple of underwhelming games, and he may be at risk of losing his place in the team for a period. However, that hasn’t happened yet, and his dynamic nature is undeniably exciting and a breath of fresh air during what is a turgid time at Old Trafford. This shouldn’t be a surprise, though, given the fact that he has learned from both Lionel Messi and Ronaldo.

Alejandro Garnacho’s Premier League statistics

Games

66

Goals

12

Assists

7
3 Rico Lewis
Manchester City (19)
rico-lewis-manchester-city

We’ve seen it before, where Pep Guardiola falls in love with a new youngster and carefully guides them to hit the highest of heights. It worked out well for Phil Foden, and there’s little to no doubt that it will work out for Rico Lewis.

Despite being a member of a packed Manchester City squad, the teenager has become a fairly frequent appearance maker since stepping into the first team. He has taken advantage of the fact that he is perhaps at his strongest on the left side of defence, an area that seems to be City’s weakest, but he has filled in on the right and in the engine room too.

His performances have seen him make his England debut, and with fitness concerns always surrounding Luke Shaw and Ben Chilwell, along with no real young option besides him, he could well find himself a constant under Thomas Tuchel if he continues his development.

Rico Lewis’ Premier League statistics

Games

38

Goals

2

Assists

2
4 Destiny Udogie
Tottenham (21)
Destiny Udogie in action for Tottenham

It’s a little cheesy, but Udogie definitely has a bright destiny. At 21-years-old, and having just joined the Premier League along with Ange Postecoglou last summer, he is already rightly considered among the top three left-backs in England’s top flight at this present time.

Whether it’s defending at the back, or bombing forward with the ball at his feet, he’s been nothing short of electric, showcasing all the traits that make fullbacks world-class in the modern game. For a while, Tottenham struggled to find a replacement for Kyle Walker and Danny Rose, but in their young Italian, it seems they’ve found their staple for the next decade.

Destiny Udogie’s Premier League statistics

Games

37

Goals

2

Assists

4
5 Harvey Elliott
Liverpool (21)
Harvey Elliott

Liverpool have their hands on a midfielder who has the potential to light up Anfield for the next decade. Harvey Elliott became the youngest Premier League player when he made his debut at just 16 years old. Although that record has since been topped, so have Elliott’s accolades.

The Englishman has been a part of two domestic cup final victories for the Reds, and in 2023, he found himself becoming a pivotal super-sub for Jurgen Klopp’s men. An injury has limited his minutes so far in 2024/25, but the impact he has been able to make so far is promising and shows that he deserves his place in one of the top teams in the country.

Harvey Elliott’s Premier League statistics

Games

77

Goals

4

Assists

8
6 Savinho
Manchester City (20)
Savinho

A Manchester City summer signing in 2024, Savinho comes to the Premier League with a high ceiling, having scored nine goals and provided 10 assists on loan at Girona last season to help them qualify for the Champions League for the first time in the club’s 96-year history, finishing behind only Barcelona and Real Madrid in La Liga.

There were questions about whether he could replicate those performances in the Premier League, but the Brazilian winger has answered those doubts emphatically, becoming a key presence in City’s start to the 2024/25 season. Longevity holds him back, but if the electric wide man continues to shine, he could rise into the top five soon.

Savinho Premier League statistics

Games

7

Goals

0

Assists

2
7 Levi Colwill
Chelsea (21)
Chelsea defender Levi Colwill in action

A crucial part of the England U21 team that won the Under-21 European Championship just last year, Levi Colwill made a comfortable step-up into Premier League football last term with Chelsea, even captaining the side occasionally.

Still only 21-years-old, Colwill has made light work of getting to grips with England’s topflight, and he already has bags of experience to build upon in coming years. A left-footed defender is always a coveted asset, and now shining for Enzo Maresca in the heart of the Blues’ defence, Chelsea have the real deal in their academy graduate.

Levi Colwill’s Premier League statistics

Games

49

Goals

1

Assists

3
8 Malo Gusto
Chelsea (21)
Malo Gusto

Following his arrival from Lyon, many thought Malo Gusto would operate as Reece James’ back-up. However, following the latter’s injury woes during the 2023/24 campaign, the young French defender was handed an opportunity to impress in the first team – and he’s taken the chance with both hands.

Arguably one of the best in his position in the league right now, the versatile defender has shown that he’s an effective player in the final third while proving to be a real asset in his own box. His stunning performances for the Blues in the 2023-24 campaign saw him earn his first international cap with his beloved France back in October.

Malo Gusto’s Premier League statistics

Games

34

Goals

0

Assists

6
9 Jhon Duran
Aston Villa (20)
jhon duran

A few eyebrows were raised when Chelsea and West Ham made approaches for Jhon Duran during the 2024 summer transfer window, considering he had not set Villa Park alight just yet. But since the start of the 2024/25 season, the Colombian has been as in form as they come.

Regularly brought off the bench for Ollie Watkins whenever he tires or if Villa need a goal, Duran has come up with the goods whenever he’s been asked. Be it screamers against Bayern Munich in the Champions League or late winners against West Ham, interest in him is only likely to sky rocket, especially if Unai Emery can’t find room for him in the starting XI.

Jhon Duran’s Premier League statistics

Appearances

44

Goals

9

Assists

0
10 Adam Wharton
Crystal Palace (20)
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton in action

The arrival of 20-year-old Adam Wharton in January 2024 has since allowed the Eagles to spread their wings again. In many ways, the line-breaking, all-action defensive midfielder comes somewhat as Roy Hodgson’s parting gift, with new boss Oliver Glasner exacting the full potential of his young squad to cure them of their relegation headache and, instead, help Crystal Palace soar to a club-high 10th last season.

Palace haven’t started the 2024/25 season especially well, but if they are to bounce back, they will need their big players to step up. That includes Wharton, whose playing style is defined by his exceptional football intelligence. As a midfielder, he possesses the ability to dictate the flow of the game, make accurate passes, and create scoring opportunities for his team, with his box-to-box energy seeing him develop into a natural teacher’s pet.

Adam Wharton’s Premier League statistics

Games

24

Goals

0

Assists

3
11 Rasmus Hojlund
Manchester United (21)
Rasmus Hojlund celebrates

From the outside looking in (as well as by listening to any fan of the top six clubs besides Man United), you’d be forgiven for thinking Rasmus Hojlund has been a flop at Old Trafford. Yet, the statistics suggest otherwise. In 2023/24, he scored 10 goals and provided two assists for the Red Devils, with his impressive hold-up play and clinical edge going a long way in remedying United’s profligacy in recent times.

While Marcus Rashford and Antony have been woeful in that department and others around Hojlund have failed to pick out his promising runs in-behind, this should by no means be a negative reflection on the big Dane, who has done all the right things while those next to him have lacked selflessness. Now back to full fitness, he will be looking to make a difference for the Red Devils after a troublesome start to 2024/25.

Rasmus Hojlund’s Premier League statistics

Games

35

Goals

11

Assists

2
12 Yankuba Minteh
Brighton (20)
Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh celebrating

Yankuba Minteh has wasted little time in showing the Premier League exactly what all the hype is about. Newcastle really didn’t want to let their talented youngster go, but were forced to sell him to Brighton to comply with the league’s profit and sustainability rules. And the Magpies are now watching the 20-year-old tear teams apart for someone else.

While he’s only managed the solitary assist so far for the Seagulls, Minteh’s nimble footwork and electric speed has given clubs plenty of problems so far. He could be the latest gem to develop where Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and others once honed their craft.

Yankuba Minteh’s Premier League statistics

Appearances

7

Goals

1

Assists

1
13 Jarell Quansah
Liverpool (21)
Jarell Quansah of Liverpool

Jarell Quansah’s biggest compliment is that he’s made partnering Virgil Van Dijk look easy. Sure, with the help of the best centre-back on the planet, anything is possible, but while Joe Gomez, Ibrahima Konate, and Joel Matip have all come before him, the 21-year-old looks no less comfortable than his predecessors next to the colossal Dutchman.

The young Englishman might have lost his starting berth at the start of the new term, but there is plenty of time for Quansah to rediscover his best form and lay claim to the centre-back spot once again. He’s tall, fast, strong, and with a little extra guidance, he can easily surge up the rankings.

Jarell Quansah’s Premier League statistics

Games

18

Goals

2

Assists

0
14 Conor Bradley
Liverpool (21)
Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley celebrating

Liverpool have had some breakout stars over the years through their academy, with Conor Bradley being the latest. A right-back with a background as a winger, the youngster seemed to have a profile perfectly suited to Klopp’s style of play, and he’s been afforded the occasional minute under Arne Slot to help his development continue. Very at ease with the idea of attacking space and providing offensive presence, he represents a real threat to his opponents.

The 21-year-old put in many memorable performances for the club in the 2023-24 season, most notably in the Reds’ 4-1 win against Chelsea where he scored his first senior goal as well as providing two assists. The future looks bright for Bradley – who will no doubt be part of Liverpool’s plans for the foreseeable future after also playing a key role in the club’s Carabao Cup victory.

Conor Bradley’s Premier League statistics

Games

15

Goals

1

Assists

3

3:12
Liverpool academy star Conor Bradley

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15 Leny Yoro
Manchester United (18)
Leny Yoro vs Rangers (1)

The truth is, judging Leny Yoro before he’s made a single competitive appearance for Man United will prove far too difficult. A lot has been made of the fact he’s now the most expensive teenager in Premier League history and, with that, comes the burden of expectation.

However, given the fact United beat Real Madrid and Liverpool to his signature should say a lot in itself. What’s more, his stats from last season were comparable to the very best England’s topflight has to offer, but for now, comparisons should be locked away. Sure, he looks exceptional, but only time will tell whether he’s his club’s answer to the Van Dijk/Saliba debate.

Leny Yoro Premier League statistics

Games

0

Goals

0

Assists

0
16 Tino Livramento
Newcastle (21)
tino livramento

Having developed into a fine young right-back during his time in Chelsea’s academy, Tino Livramento decided it was time for a change. Moving to Southampton, he looked like a future England international before a nasty ACL injury kept him out of action for nearly a full year.

The Saints’ relegation allowed Newcastle to swoop in, and since joining the Magpies, Livramento has continued to go from strength to strength. Being able to learn off the experienced Kieran Trippier has only helped him more, and now, he is their first-choice right-back. Should he continue to shine for Eddie Howe, he might start to be recognised as one of the best full-backs the Premier League has to offer.

Tino Livramento Premier League statistics

Appearances

65

Goals

2

Assists

1
17 Oscar Bobb
Manchester City (21)
Oscar Bobb

Guardiola has unearthered several stars during his time at City’s academy, and Oscar Bobb has the potential to be just as special as Foden, Lewis, and all the rest. Handed a Premier League in September 2023, the Norwegian has gone on to rack up 13 more, also getting his first goal against Newcastle in January 2024.

It appeared that Bobb was set for a breakout season, but a fractured leg has deprived him of that for at least three to four months. When he’s back, the 21-year-old could take the Premier League by storm and fly up these rankings.

Oscar Bobb Premier League statistics

Appearances

14

Goals

1

Assists

1
18 Ethan Nwaneri
Arsenal (17)
Arsenal attacking midfielder Ethan Nwaneri celebrating

Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri is the youngest player on this list, but as we’ve seen with all of the above, age is no problem if you’re good enough. And the Gunners’ young star has talent in abundance.

Becoming their youngest ever debutant by coming on as a raw 15-year-old against Brentford back in 2022, Nwaneri has had to hone his craft over the years, patiently waiting for an opportunity to make a more consistent impact in the first team. 2024/25 has seen him pick up minutes as a substitute under Mikel Arteta’s tutelege, and fans have been impressed with what they’ve seen so far. He’ll have more opportunities in the cup competitions, and he showed what he’s all about with a fabulous strike in the Carabao Cup against Preston. If he can build on what he’s shown so far, Arsenal have a real gem on their hands.

Ethan Nwaneri Premier League Statistics

Appearances

6

Goals

0

Assists

0
19 Milos Kerkez
Bournemouth (20)
Milos Kerkez

Signed from AZ Alkmaar in the summer of 2023, Milos Kerkez has looked like an astute bit of business. Bournemouth hoped that the left-back could become a regular option for them in defence, and the Hungarian has done exactly that.

Making 28 Premier League appearances during the 2023/24 term, Kerkez has featured in all of the Cherries’ games in the new term. Andoni Iraloa clearly trusts him, and regular minutes will only see him become a better player. Still only 20-years-old, there is potential for him to become an excellent footballer in future years.

Milos Kerkez Premier League statistics

Appearances

37

Goals

0

Assists

1
20 Lewis Hall
Newcastle (20)
Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall celebrating

Having featured England’s youth sides from under-15 level all the way up to the under-21s, the future is certainly bright for young Lewis Hall. Not everybody who comes through the Chelsea academy is able to feature for their first team, and the 20-year-old managed to make 12 appearances.

But Hall wanted regular minutes, so when Newcastle came calling, it was an easy decision for him. Capable of playing in midfield but also at full-back, he has mostly been used on the left side of defence by Eddie Howe, but his versatility means he could fulfill other duties should the Magpies need him to – a valuable commodity indeed.

Lewis Hall’s Premier League statistics

Appearances

35

Goals

1

Assists

1

All statistics courtesy of the Premier League and Transfermarkt – Correct as of 31/10/24.

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