Adepoju Marvellous takes a look at four Premier League youngsters the footballing world should look out for.
Over the years, a number of Premier League youngsters have risen through the ranks, all the way to the top. Paul Scholes, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard to name a few. Here is a list of four youngsters I expect to follow suit.
Gabriel Martinelli
In what has been a season to forget for most Arsenal fans, one of the few positives has been the emergence of Martinelli. The Brazilian attacker has impressed since his £6m move to the Emirates in the summer of 2019.
With 10 goals in 26 appearances this season, it is no surprise to see Italy and Brazil battle for his allegiance.
Asides from being a pacy forward who can play anywhere across the frontline, he is also a very good finisher and possesses impressive energy levels.
Arsenal would be looking to return to their glory days in the coming years and a major part of that would rest on Martinelli living up to his already evident potential.
Mason Greenwood
Only a few clubs can match Manchester United in terms of producing homegrown talents. The latest one to have emerged from their illustrious academy is certainly one to keep an eye on. Greenwood was phenomenal at youth level so it was no surprise to see him promoted to the senior squad.
14 goals in 38 appearances represents a very healthy return especially if you are a teenager in his debut season with the first team. Nicky Butt, Manchester United head of youth development is also a big fan of Greenwood as he named him the “best young player he’s ever seen at the club”.
His style of play has seen him likened to Robin Van Persie. A nightmare for defenders as his ambipedal nature means he is dangerous on either foot. He also possesses clinical finishing and crafty movement which explains why even at age 18, he is already one of the best youngsters in the Premier League.
United will look to restore themselves as England’s best team again and Greenwood is expected to be a major part of that.
Reece James
The appointment of Frank Lampard has seen Chelsea hand more first-team opportunities to youngsters than ever before. One man who has undoubtedly grabbed his with both hands is Reece James.
After impressing on loan at Wigan where he was named in the Championship team of the season, James was called back and promoted to the first team as Chelsea prepared for life under Lampard.
He has since not looked back as he has been impressive for Chelsea whenever being called upon. A pacy full-back with fantastic crossing ability and extraordinary link up.
He may only be 19 years old but he has proved beyond doubt that Chelsea’s right hand of defence is safe in his hands for the next few years to come.
Bukayo Saka
Saka, like Martinelli, has been one of Arsenal’s bright sparks this season.
He may have been moved to a less familiar role at left-back but he has still been absolutely marvellous for Arsenal as they have had to deal with constant injuries to Kieran Tierney and Sead Kolasinac.
Having excelled at left-back this season, Saka may consider a permanent change of position and it’s not hard to see why considering the amount of progress he has made. Blessed with uncommon defensive awareness for a natural winger, Saka is also composed on the ball and shows great maturity for a man only 18 years of age.
With 13 direct goal involvements in 30 games, Saka has still managed to contribute substantially to the attack despite featuring as a full-back more times than not.
If Saka continues on his current trajectory, he is undoubtedly set for a bright future.
Fans of the clubs of these youngsters will surely look to the future with great expectations from them. Notwithstanding, I am confident that they have all it takes to get to the top of the game.
