The European Championship is fast approaching as teams across the continent gear up for the showpiece tournament.
The competition had to be rescheduled due to the pandemic but UEFA will finally be able to celebrate the 60th anniversary on June 11th.
England fans will be hoping Gareth Southgate can bring football home, or at least avoid a similar fate as the 2016 Euros, when the Three Lions were dumped out at the round of 16 by minnows Iceland.
The competition’s postponement has been a double edged sword, with football fans understandably eager for football, we’ve had another year for young talent across the globe to develop.
With the Euro squad sizes being extended to 26 instead of the usual 23, there’s even more teams that will take a punt on their wonderkid.
But who are the top prospects heading into the tournament that could make a big impact? Here’s five youngsters to keep your eyes on…
Jude Bellingham (England)
At the age of just 17, Jude Bellingham is mature way beyond his years.
Labelled the next Steven Gerrard, the midfielder has set the Bundesliga alight since signing for Borussia Dortmund last summer.
Known for his versatility, composure and hard working attitude, there are bright things in this guy’s future.
He rose to the occasion when in the spotlight with some tantalizing performances in the Champions League quarter-finals against Manchester City, bagging himself a goal and being one of the best players on the pitch.
With two caps to his name already, the midfielder could force his way into the starting eleven, with many believing he deserves a spot in the team despite his age.
England have been blessed with a star-studded midfield, and it’s not yet known where Bellingham fits into Southgate’s plans.
Eduardo Camavinga (France)
With Camavinga’s contract expiring in 2022, teams from across the globe are already preparing for an intense tug of war to secure his signature.
The Rennes teenager has interest from Real Madrid, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Arsenal and after rejecting a contract extension, a big move is inevitable.
The midfielder has been likened to N’Golo Kante, known for his tackling and willingness to do the dirty work he could fit into any top team.
Camavinga has already got himself on the scoresheet for his country, becoming the youngest French goalscorer in a century with a stunning overhead kick against Ukraine.
France will be widely regarded as favourites to win the Euros this summer, aged just 18 years old the defensive midfielder could get his hands on one of the most coveted international honours.
Jamal Musiala (Germany)
Jamal Musiala is enjoying life in Germany…
After spending most of his childhood at the Chelsea academy, he left for Bayern Munich and has featured 25 times in the league this season.
The Bayern prodigy played a key role in the Bundesliga campaign this season, helping the club create history with their 10th consecutive title win.
With six league goals to his name, and a brilliant Champions League strike against Lazio, Jamal isn’t just one for the future, he can make a serious impact in this European Championship.
Musiala made the decision to snub England to lace up for Germany, will that turn out to be the best decision?
Germany have been disappointing in the past international competitions since their 2014 World Cup win, maybe an injection of youth is exactly what is needed.
Pedri (Spain)
Ronald Koeman is known to favour younger players and has given Pedri every chance to shine this season.
The Spaniard joined Barcelona from Las Palmas in 2020 and hasn’t looked back, playing in every league game this season.
Earning a starting spot in the midfield of a team that includes Lionel Messi, Miralem Pjanic and Sergio Busquets is an accomplishment within itself and the youngster isn’t taking the opportunity for granted.
Although the Catalonian giants have had a disappointing season, there is a sense of optimism around the club.
Pedri’s passing and technical ability mirror that of Barca legend Andres Inesta and at 18 years old some think he has the potential to reach the very top.
Ryan Gravenberch (Netherlands)
Ajax have a reputation for developing young players and Ryan Gravenberch is another prospect developed at their famous academy.
Gravenberch is already a target of Manchester United at just 19 years old, and a big money move could be on the cards soon to further his career.
After making his international debut in March this year, he hasn’t looked back and will be keen to prove his worth to Netherlands coach Frank De Boer.
The wonderkid has a wealth of experience to his name already and is regarded as a generational talent in Holland.
Expectations for the Dutch aren’t high for the Euros, and their squad isn’t as strong as their past teams meaning Gravenberch could get a lot of minutes.
He could be one to watch for goal of the tournament as he’s well known to be keen on a long shot.