Each year, the prestigious Golden Boy award recognizes the top-performing footballer under the age of 21, celebrating those who have made a significant impact in elite-level football. As the 2025 edition nears, the race is tighter than ever, with a fresh wave of rising stars lighting up Europe’s biggest leagues.
This year’s list includes a wide range of promising talent—from explosive forwards and tactically sharp midfielders to reliable defenders. Some have already made a name for themselves, while others are experiencing rapid breakthroughs. What unites them all is their major influence on their clubs despite their youth.
Here are the top 10 names leading the charge for the 2025 Golden Boy award, ranked by their recent form, long-term potential, and seasonal contributions:
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**10. Leny Yoro (Manchester United, France)**
*Position: Centre-back | Age: 19*
After a major transfer from Lille in 2024, turning down Real Madrid in the process, Yoro joined Manchester United with heavy expectations. Despite early setbacks from a foot injury and some inconsistency, he’s demonstrated why he’s regarded as one of Europe’s brightest defensive prospects. Calm under pressure and strong in reading the game, Yoro looks poised to be a future leader in United’s defense.
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**9. Kenan Yıldız (Juventus, Turkey)**
*Position: Left-winger | Age: 19*
Yıldız has quickly made his mark in Serie A since joining Juventus from Bayern Munich’s academy. With creative flair, technical skill, and positional intelligence, he’s become an essential piece for both Juve and the Turkish national team. Though Juventus’ lack of Champions League football might affect his chances, a move to a bigger stage could soon change that.
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**8. Eliesse Ben Seghir (AS Monaco, France)**
*Position: Attacking Midfielder | Age: 19*
One of Ligue 1’s brightest creators, Ben Seghir shines with his dribbling ability, vision, and composure in tight spaces. Despite Monaco’s ups and downs, his performances remain consistent. As he gains more attention in European competition, he’s emerging as a serious candidate for the Golden Boy honor.
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**7. Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal, England)**
*Position: Attacking Midfielder | Age: 17*
After debuting as the youngest Premier League player in 2022, Nwaneri has continued his steady rise. Known for his technical quality and confidence, he’s being carefully integrated into Arsenal’s first team by Mikel Arteta. If he maintains his development, he could soon be a major name in English football.
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**6. Arda Güler (Real Madrid, Turkey)**
*Position: Attacking Midfielder / Winger | Age: 20*
Although game time was initially limited for Güler, Real Madrid have made it clear they see him as a long-term asset. In the 2024/25 season, he’s begun to demonstrate his class with elegant dribbling and sharp playmaking. With Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure ending, Güler may soon step into a leading role and boost his Golden Boy hopes.
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**5. Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth, Netherlands)**
*Position: Centre-back | Age: 19*
After a standout loan at Roma, Huijsen’s transfer to Bournemouth in 2024 marked a new chapter. Under Andoni Iraola, he’s blossomed into a composed, ball-playing center-back. With Real Madrid reportedly eyeing him for a major transfer, Huijsen could soon be competing at the highest level—and contending seriously for the Golden Boy.
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**4. Warren Zaïre-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain, France)**
*Position: Central Midfielder | Age: 19*
Already a mainstay in PSG’s lineup, Zaïre-Emery boasts over 100 senior appearances. His tactical awareness, consistent performances, and leadership qualities at such a young age make him a strong favorite. Should PSG go deep in the Champions League, he may very well take home the award.
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**3. Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal, England)**
*Position: Left-back / Midfielder | Age: 18*
Originally a midfielder, Lewis-Skelly has adapted brilliantly to a left-back role this season. His smooth ball control, decision-making, and mature displays have solidified his spot in Arsenal’s lineup. If he maintains this level, he could become a permanent fixture and a strong Golden Boy candidate.
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**2. Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona, Spain)**
*Position: Centre-back | Age: 17*
A revelation in Barcelona’s defense, Cubarsí has shown poise and tactical sharpness well beyond his years. His rapid rise under Hansi Flick has made him a key player, and many now see him as the best young defender in world football. He’s among the top contenders to win the award—possibly the first center-back to do so since Matthijs de Ligt.
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**1. Désiré Doué (Paris Saint-Germain, France)**
*Age: 19*
Following his move from Rennes, Doué has seamlessly slotted into PSG’s midfield. Technically skilled and tactically aware, he’s especially impressed in Champions League knockout matches. His all-around contributions and influence on PSG’s performances make him a top favorite to win the 2025 Golden Boy award.
