The English Premier League (EPL) is renowned for its high-octane pace, passionate fans, and a constant influx of exciting young talent. From the league’s inception, it has been a breeding ground for world-class footballers, and the current crop of youngsters promises to continue that tradition. This list explores the top 10 rising stars currently captivating audiences in the EPL as of May 2024, highlighting their unique skillsets and the impact they’re having on the most popular league in the world.
1. Harvey Elliott, Liverpool (Attacking Midfielder)
Emerging from Fulham’s academy and nurtured at Liverpool, Harvey Elliott has blossomed into a key player for Jurgen Klopp’s side. This technically gifted attacking midfielder possesses exceptional close control, a creative spark, and an eye for a killer pass. He averages over 2 key passes per game, consistently unlocking defenses with his vision and ability to find teammates in dangerous positions. Elliott’s dribbling skills and willingness to take on defenders make him a joy to watch, adding an extra dimension to Liverpool’s attacking play. With his talent and confidence, Elliott is poised to become a mainstay in Liverpool’s midfield for years to come.
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2. Rico Lewis, Manchester City (Right Back)
Pep Guardiola has a knack for identifying and developing young talent, and Rico Lewis is another example. This attacking right back offers a constant threat down the flank. He averages over 2 key passes per game, consistently whipping in dangerous crosses for his teammates like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. Lewis’ attacking prowess doesn’t come at the expense of his defensive duties. He possesses good pace and tackling ability, making him a reliable presence at the back. With his attacking instincts and defensive solidity, Lewis is a complete modern fullback with the potential to become a mainstay in Manchester City’s backline for a long time.
3. Kobbie Mainoo, Manchester United (Central Midfielder)
Manchester United’s academy, famed for producing legends like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, has unearthed another gem in Kobbie Mainoo. This box-to-box midfielder possesses a blend of athleticism, technical ability, and a maturity in his decision-making that belies his age. He averages over 2 tackles and interceptions per game while also contributing over 1 key pass per game. Mainoo’s ability to dominate possession, win tackles, and drive forward with the ball makes him a valuable asset for Manchester United’s midfield, adding much-needed energy and dynamism. With his talent and work ethic, Mainoo is poised to become a key player for Manchester United’s future.
4. Alejandro Garnacho, Manchester United (Winger)
Another exciting youngster emerging from Manchester United’s academy is Alejandro Garnacho. This electrifying winger possesses lightning-quick pace, dazzling dribbling skills, and a knack for beating defenders one-on-one. He averages over 2 dribbles per game and contributes over 1 key pass per game, consistently creating opportunities for his teammates. Garnacho’s ability to take on defenders in space and deliver pinpoint crosses or cut inside and take a shot himself makes him a nightmare to defend against. With his exciting style of play and undeniable talent, Garnacho is a rising star with the potential to become a world-class winger.
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5. Jack Hinshelwood, Brighton & Hove Albion (Center Back)
While the spotlight often falls on attacking players, Jack Hinshelwood is quietly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with at the back for Brighton & Hove Albion. This young center back possesses exceptional composure on the ball, calmness under pressure, and a maturity in his positioning that belies his age. He averages over 2 tackles and interceptions per game, consistently making crucial blocks and clearances. Hinshelwood’s ability to read the game and organize the defense has been a key factor in Brighton’s defensive solidity this season. With his talent and leadership qualities, Hinshelwood is poised to become a key player not only for Brighton but also potentially for the English national team.
6. Anthony Gordon, Everton (Winger)
Despite Everton’s struggles this season, Anthony Gordon has been a shining light. This versatile attacker can play as a winger or even as a second striker. He possesses exceptional dribbling skills, close control, and a knack for finding the back of the net. Gordon averages a goal contribution (goal or assist) every other game, showcasing his ability to create and finish scoring opportunities. With his creativity, versatility, and eye for goal, Gordon is a player to watch closely, and his performances have already attracted interest from several top clubs.
7. Michael Olise, Crystal Palace (Attacking Midfielder)
Crystal Palace has unearthed a gem in Michael Olise, who has quickly become a fan favorite at Selhurst Park. This technically gifted attacking midfielder possesses a wand of a left foot and a vision that allows him to unlock defenses with pinpoint passes. He averages over 3 key passes per game, consistently creating opportunities for his teammates like Wilfried Zaha and Christian Benteke. Olise’s ability to control the tempo of the game and dictate play from midfield is crucial for Crystal Palace’s attacking strategy. With his talent and creativity, Olise is a player who could attract interest from bigger clubs in the near future.
8. Conor Bradley, AFC Bournemouth (Right Back/Wing Back)
AFC Bournemouth’s return to the Premier League has been bolstered by the emergence of Conor Bradley, a young Northern Irish defender with a unique skillset. This attacking wing-back offers a constant threat down the right flank. He averages over 2 key passes per game, consistently whipping in dangerous crosses or finding teammates with overlapping runs. Bradley’s attacking prowess doesn’t come at the expense of his defensive duties. He possesses good pace and tackling ability, making him a reliable presence at the back. With his attacking instincts and defensive solidity, Bradley is a valuable asset for Bournemouth’s attacking style of play.
9. Fabio Carvalho, Fulham (Attacking Midfielder)
After impressing in the Championship with Fulham, Fabio Carvalho has seamlessly transitioned to the Premier League. This creative midfielder possesses exceptional close control, a knack for finding space, and a creativity that unlocks defenses. He averages over 2 key passes per game and contributes close to a goal every five games. Carvalho’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game and orchestrate attacks makes him a vital cog in Fulham’s midfield. With his talent on display in the top flight, it will be interesting to see if Fulham can hold onto him amidst potential interest from bigger clubs.
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10. Morgan Gibbs-White, Nottingham Forest (Central Midfielder)
Nottingham Forest’s return to the Premier League after a long absence has been spearheaded by the midfield duo of Jesse Lingard and Morgan Gibbs-White. This creative central midfielder possesses a technical skillset, a keen eye for a pass, and a knack for scoring crucial goals. He averages over 1.5 key passes per game and contributes close to a goal every six games. Gibbs-White’s ability to control the tempo of the game, link up play between midfield and attack, and score goals from outside the box makes him a vital player for Nottingham Forest. With his talent showcased on the biggest stage, Gibbs-White could be primed for a move to an even bigger club in the near future.
The Future of the English Premier League
These 10 rising stars illuminate the bright future of the English Premier League. From Elliott’s dazzling creativity to Hinshelwood’s defensive solidity, the league is brimming with young talent. These players are not just exciting to watch; they are impacting games and contributing to their teams’ success. As they continue to develop, they have the potential to become not only Premier League stars but also global superstars, shaping the future of English football for years to come. Fans can eagerly anticipate their battles for individual accolades and team success, with some destined to become legends of the game and leave their mark on Premier League history.
