Rising Talent: Key Future Stars to Watch at U17 World Cup
The U17 World Cup is showcasing a multitude of emerging football talents from around the globe. Held in Qatar, this tournament not only fuels competition for the trophy but also highlights the players poised for future success in their careers. Below, we delve into some of the brightest stars that fans should keep an eye on as they shine in Qatar.
Rising Talent: Key Future Stars to Watch at U17 World Cup
Italy’s Future Star: Destiny Elimoghale
Juventus winger Destiny Elimoghale is the youngest player in Italy’s squad. Known for his speed, intensity, and tactical understanding, he could become a game-changer for the Azzurrini team.
Manchester City’s Emerging Talent: Kaden Braithwaite
Kaden Braithwaite made history as Manchester City’s youngest player in a competitive match when he appeared in the EFL Cup at 16 years old. Standing at 1.94 meters, this centre-back exhibits strong leadership on the pitch and is expected to play a pivotal role in Qatar.
French Prodigy: Abdoulaye Camara
Abdoulaye Camara currently plays for Udinese after transitioning from Montpellier. Renowned for his strong tackling and communication, he is a critical player for the French U17 team that recently reached the European Championship final.
Brazil’s Hope: Angelo Candido
Full-back Angelo Candido comes with high expectations in Brazil. He has been likened to legendary players such as Cafu and Jorginho for his combination of physical strength and tactical intelligence. He will begin his journey in Europe with Strasbourg in January 2026.
Australia’s Mathew Baker Opts for Indonesia
Mathew Baker is becoming a standout player from Indonesia, although born in Australia. Initially on the Australian U17 team, he has chosen to represent Indonesia moving forward, showcasing significant defensive skills.
Versatile Scorer: Can Armando Güner
Can Armando Güner, representing Borussia Mönchengladbach, is an exciting offensive talent known for his finishing skills. He tallied an impressive 26 goals for the U17 team and holds the potential to represent multiple countries.
Next Generation Defender: Leon Jakirović
Leon Jakirović, a center-back from Croatia, is the son of a former international player. At 1.91 meters tall, he combines strong physicality with excellent ball control, making him a valuable asset for future clubs.
North America’s Cavan Sullivan
Cavan Sullivan, of the Philadelphia Union, made headlines as the youngest player in MLS history. With dual US and German citizenship, he is being courted by top clubs, including Manchester City.
A Dutch Talent: Abdellah Ouazane
Abdellah Ouazane has risen through Ajax’s ranks, demonstrating technical elegance and adaptability on the field. He played a crucial role in Morocco’s U17 Africa Cup win and is recognized as a key playmaker.
Germany’s Wisdom Mike
Wisdom Mike is set to make his mark in professional football at Bayern Munich. At just 17 years old, he has already made significant appearances in Bundesliga and Champions League matches this season.
Portugal’s Midfield Maestro: Rafael Quintas
Rafael Quintas stands out as a talented midfielder for Portugal. His impressive skills have already made him a vital part of Benfica’s U23 team, where he recently scored two goals in nine games.
This U17 World Cup is a crucial platform for these young players. Their performances may lead to exciting opportunities and professional contracts, paving the way for their football journeys.
