The UEFA Champions League is known for showcasing some of the best football talents from around the world. The competition features seasoned veterans and a plethora of young stars eager to make their mark on the grand stage. As we get ready for the 2024 season, here are ten young talents whose performances are highly anticipated. From record-breaking wingers to versatile midfielders, these Young Stars to Watch in Champions League 2024 are set to light up the tournament and potentially become household names. Furthermore, you can watch all Champions league 2024 matches on Servus TV or RTE Player for free but you need a VPN to overcome streaming geo-restrictions.
1. Kylian Mbappe (25, Real Madrid/France)
Currently regarded as one of the elite players in world football, Kylian Mbappe is poised for a major breakthrough in the 2024 Champions League after his transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid. At just 25 years old, he has already made a significant impact and will be looking to make his mark in the Champions League. Despite being one of the youngest players to achieve so much, Mbappe has yet to lift the Champions League trophy. With only two goals needed to break into the top-10 European Cup goalscorers ever, fans will be eager to see if this year can finally be his moment. His blistering pace, technical skills, and experience at the highest levels of football make him a force to be reckoned with.
2. Jude Bellingham (21, Real Madrid/England)
Another young player to take the stage is Jude Bellingham, a midfielder who has taken European football by storm. Since joining Real Madrid, Bellingham has exceeded all expectations, scoring 23 goals across all competitions last season, helping his team to victory in both the Champions League and La Liga. This young Englishman is surely one to watch, though some may question whether he can maintain his momentum after a more subdued performance for the England national team at Euro 2024. He’s currently showing promising form in La Liga, and fans will be keen to see if he can channel that into stellar performances in the Champions League.
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3. Lamine Yamal (17, Barcelona/Spain)
Spain has a new rising star in 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, who has already made waves at Barcelona. Setting several records last season while breaking through at just 16 years old, Yamal has already enchanted fans all over the globe with his skills. His remarkable performances during Euro 2024 helped Spain secure the trophy, solidifying his reputation as one of football’s bright new talents. Fans will be eager to see whether Yamal can keep up his scintillating form in the Champions League, especially after scoring three goals already in La Liga this season. The world will be watching to see if he can live up to the incredible hype surrounding him.
4. Dani Olmo (26, Barcelona/Spain)
Yet another young talent on the Barcelona roster is Dani Olmo. Although he’s slightly older than the others on this list, his move from Leipzig to Barcelona has ignited a new level of excitement. He suffered a hamstring injury after starting strong with his first three appearances yielding goals. Suppose he can recover in time for the crucial match against Bayern Munich on October 23. In that case, the Champions League may just witness what Olmo is capable of as he seeks to establish himself in the upper echelons of European football.
5. Harry Kane (31, Bayern Munich/England)
Harry Kane may not completely fit the mold for a young star, his impact on Bayern Munich cannot be overstated. At 31, he remains at the top of his game and is in pursuit of his first trophy after joining Bayern. Last season, he netted an incredible 44 goals, demonstrating he’s still a player that every opponent fears. Can Kane elevate Bayern Munich to Champions League glory? With a track record like his, he’s certainly one to watch, balancing experience with still incredible agility and skill.
6. Michael Olise (22, Bayern Munich/France)
Another name to follow at Bayern Munich is Michael Olise, an exciting winger acquired from Crystal Palace. Recently, he made his senior debut for France, showcasing the talent that made him a sought-after player. Olise aims to leave his mark in what is anticipated to be his first season in European football. His youthful exuberance coupled with effective dribbling and ball control may just provide the spark Bayern Munich needs to shine in the Champions League.
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7. Xavi Simons (21, Leipzig/Netherlands)
From the Netherlands, Xavi Simons is a versatile attacking midfielder looking to make an impact at RB Leipzig after his transfer from PSG. He excelled last season with impressive stats, including 10 goals and 15 assists, and aims to elevate those numbers this season. Simons’s ability to navigate tight spaces and his intelligence on the ball makes him a player to keep an eye on as he looks to solidify his place in European competition.
8. Antonio Nusa (19, Leipzig/Norway)
Leipzig appears to have a knack for attracting young talent, and 19-year-old Antonio Nusa is the latest to join their ranks. This Norwegian wonderkid is another attacking presence with considerable talent. He transferred from Club Bruges, evading interest from top teams like Chelsea and Tottenham. Nusa has opted for the Champions League experience and has already found himself on the scoresheet this season. He could be one of the most exciting players to see in action and is definitely one to watch.
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9. Joao Neves (19, Paris Saint-Germain/Portugal)
A significant defensive midfielder, Joao Neves joined PSG from Benfica and comes into the Champions League this season full of promise. His hefty transfer fee of at least £50 million reflects his value and potential. Neves has already showcased his talent by representing Portugal internationally and has gained crucial experience playing in various competitions. He will be keen to demonstrate his defensive abilities against the best teams in Europe.
10. Desire Doue (19, Paris Saint-Germain/France)
Rounding out this list is fellow PSG midfielder Desire Doue, another hotshot teenager. His move from Rennes for £42 million underscores his esteemed talent, drawing interest from multiple top clubs. A flexible player capable of enhancing the midfield or taking up attacking roles, Doue will aim to make his Champions League debut and hopes to build Young Stars to Watch in Champions League 2024.
Final Words
The 2024 Champions League is set to spotlight a new generation of football stars, with young talents from across Europe ready to make their mark. These rising players bring a mix of speed, technical skill, and creativity that will shape the future of the tournament. Whether it’s a breakthrough striker, a dynamic midfielder, or a solid defender, their performances will be pivotal in leading their teams deep into the competition. Fans can expect thrilling moments from these young stars to watch in Champions League 2024, as they challenge the more established players and prove their worth on football’s biggest stage. With their potential and determination, they are poised to become the next legends of the game, making this season particularly exciting to follow.
