With the World Cup set to kick-off in five days, excitement is building ahead of this year’s unusual showpiece in Qatar. Players and managers face the unusual problem of jumping straight into the tournament just a week after domestic leagues have stopped. For several players, this will give them the opportunity to carry their momentum with their clubs into the World Cup.
This World Cup will see a number of young stars make a name for themselves as they continue their impressive form into Qatar. Young players have often made a name for themselves through international tournaments, and this year's tournament has some exceptional talent on display.
Here is five young players to keep an eye on when the action gets underway on Sunday.
Jude Bellingham-England
A player that has benefited greatly from a move to Germany, Jude Bellingham has been one of the best central midfielders to play for England in years. Having captained Borussia Dortmund and put in huge performances in Europe, it no appears a matter of when, rather than if he will move to the Premier League.
At just 19, Bellingham controls games with his brilliant range of passing and incredible work rate. His close control dribbling gets his team into attacking positions and out of trouble defensively, while he has shown an eye for goal that makes him a valuable asset for both club and country.
Jude Bellingham is coming back to England in the #UCL ✈️🏴#UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/hWpqugVNpv
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) November 7, 2022
Jamal Musiala-Germany
The one that got away from England, Jamal Musiala represented England as far as U21s, before making the switch to Germany. The former Chelsea academy player has been one of Bayern Munich’s best players since making his debut in 2020, and should be a key part of this Germany side who will be aiming to make amends for their group stage exit in 2018.
Jamal Musiala can't stop scoring!
That's 11 goal involvements in 11 games for Bayern this season ⭐ pic.twitter.com/oU6fvwOvG1— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) September 30, 2022
The 19-year-old will be one of the most creative players at the tournament, with the ability to create an opportunity from nothing. A big tournament in Qatar could make him into a superstar.
Youssoufa Moukoko -Germany
At the age of 17, Youssoufa Moukoko was a shock inclusion in the Germany squad. The Borussia Dortmund striker has scored six goals so far in the Bundesliga this season. Highly rated by Dortmund since he was 13, he is a player bound for a huge future.
With Germany short on options going forward, as Timo Werner is injured and Kai Havertz out of form, don’t be surprised to see Moukoko thrown in the deep end despite his lack of experience.
⚽️ Brandt
⚽️ Moukoko
These two Borussia Dortmund goals against Hertha Berlin 😍 pic.twitter.com/nvQ64lLvxV— GOAL (@goal) March 15, 2021
Xavi Simons-Holland
The 19-year-old will go into the competition as one of Netherlands most in form players this season. Able to play as a number ten, winger, or even as a stroker, Simons as eight goals and three assists in the Eredivisie this season. Arsenal fans have already seen what he was capable of in a brilliant performance when the sides met in the Europa League.
If the Netherlands are to succeed at this tournament,
Gavi-Spain
Watching Gavi play, you could easily mistaken him for someone who has been playing at the top level for the last decade. His silky dribbling, incredible vision and awareness on the pitch is world-class for an 18-year-old. Gavi became the youngest ever player to score for Spain when he scored against the Czech Republic last year. He also won the Golden Boy award for 2022.
Alongside Pedri, Gavi is likely going to be the future for both club and country in midfield, with this World Cup giving him the perfect platform to showcase his abilities to the World and become a true superstar.
💎 GAVI 💎 pic.twitter.com/gedbpn3ycT
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) July 20, 2022
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