The U21 European Championships are set to captivate football enthusiasts once again, this time located in Romania and Georgia. As the tournament unfolds, promising young talents from across the continent will battle to showcase their skills, determination, and potential on this prestigious stage. Over the years, this competition has served as a launching pad for many stars who have gone on to enjoy illustrious careers at the highest levels of the game. As anticipation builds, let’s take a closer look at the emerging talents who are primed to shine in the U21 European Championships and potentially become the next generation of football superstars.
Bart Verbruggen (20) – Goalkeeper – Anderlecht and Netherlands
Bart Verbruggen, a talented young goalkeeper hailing from the Netherlands, has already made waves in the goalkeeping sphere at the age of just 20. Currently playing his trade at Anderlecht, one of Belgium’s most prestigious clubs, Verbruggen has shown immense potential between the sticks. With a commanding presence, excellent reflexes, and strong shot-stopping abilities, he has quickly established himself as a reliable and promising talent.
He has attracted interest from both Burnley and Brighton and is likely to make a move to the Premier League following the tournament.
Bart Verbruggen is technically brilliant on the ball. 🇳🇱 pic.twitter.com/Fx44lwcmRA
— Ryan (@ryanadsett) June 19, 2023
Arnau Martinez (20) – Right-Back – Girona and Spain
Martinez is an exciting right-back currently playing for Girona. Rising through the ranks of Girona’s youth academy, Martinez became their youngest-ever goalscorer and has displayed versatility and maturity beyond his years. Representing Spain at various youth levels, his contributions defensively and in the attacking third highlight his potential as a modern full-back.
Giorgio Scalvini (19) – Centre-back – Atlanta and Italy
Recently nominated for the prestigious Golden Boy award, Scalvini possesses excellent defensive skills and demonstrates a strong understanding of the game. He is known for his composure on the ball, precise tackling, and ability to read the game effectively. With his height and physicality, Scalvini is a dominant presence in aerial duels. He has showcased his talents in the youth ranks, and his performances have earned him recognition at the senior level. He has often been compared to Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni. Scalvini also represents the Italian national team, highlighting his potential to become a future star in Italian football.
Pretty good tactical breakdown of Scalvini with example clips
Rare smart Brit pic.twitter.com/rrC3Z231YZ
— Nycjuventus⚜️ (@NycJuventus) June 20, 2023
Levi Colwill (19) – Centre-back – Chelsea and England
Levi Colwill has just enjoyed a successful season with Brighton, on loan from Chelsea. It is possible that a strong performance here could see Brighton turn that move into a permanent one. Possessing a mature understanding of the game beyond his years, he exhibits composure, tactical awareness, and strong decision-making skills. Colwill’s promising performances at both club and international levels suggest a bright future ahead in his footballing career.
Martin Baturina (19) – Centre Midfielder – Dinamo Zagreb and Croatia
A young Croatian midfielder that is comfortable in either a deep role or the number ten role who has excellent on-the-ball ability and plies their trade at Dinamo Zagreb, sounds familiar…
Baturina may be young but he has experienced a lot in the game. He’s played over 50 times for Zagreb and has had his first taste of Champions League competition. He’s very technical and completed the 3rd most dribbles in the Croatian top flight this season. Keep your eyes out for this one!
Enzo Le Fée (23) – Attacking Midfielder – Lorient and France
Enzo Le Fée’s name translates to Enzo The Fairy. It’s an apt translation, as he dances and tiptoes around the football pitch creating magic.
He does it all. He was the only player in Ligue 1 to complete 100 tackles, shot-creating actions, and dribbles this season. He takes wicked free-kicks and is an all-round fantastic player.
The 23-year-old has already attracted a lot of attention among Premier League clubs. A triumphant tournament on a personal level could see Le Fée make the move across the English Channel this summer.
Oscar Gloukh (19) – Attacking Midfielder – RB Salzburg and Israel
The crème de la crème of Israel’s exciting new wave of young footballing talent, Oscar Gloukh is already a fully-fledged international. He signed for RB Salzburg in January for $8m. He is a very creative player, often picking holes with ease in the opposition’s defence. Gloukh has quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional technical skills and creative flair and he could be the face of Israeli football for years to come.
Elye Wahi (20) – Striker – Montpellier and France
19 goals and five assists in Ligue 1 at aged 20 is an incredible feat. Doing it in an underperforming Montpellier side is even more incredible. Introducing Elye Wahi, one of the breakthrough stars of the whole season. Wahi, a pacey striker, excels in transitional play and poses a lethal threat due to his huge arsenal of finishing abilities.
Elye Wahi – Ligue 1 22/23:
☑️33 games
☑️19 goals
☑️5 assists
☑️2 penalties won
☑️G/A every 105 minutes
☑️30% conversion rateA truly incredible season for the 20-year-old Montpellier jewel! 💎 pic.twitter.com/H4E7geeBk4
— Football Talent Scout – Jacek Kulig (@FTalentScout) June 3, 2023
Who are you most excited to watch this tournament? Discuss in the comments below or tweet me @NickyH3lfgott
By Nicky Helfgott
