Could Estêvão, Yohannes Be the Next Golden Boy, Girl Stars in 2026?

Bassyonni

ago 9 hours

The race for the prestigious Golden Boy and Golden Girl awards in 2026 is heating up. Young talents Estêvão and Lily Yohannes are emerging as the leading candidates for these coveted titles.

Could Estêvão, Yohannes Be the Next Golden Boy, Girl Stars in 2026?

Estêvão, an 18-year-old forward for Chelsea, has made a significant impact since his arrival from Palmeiras. He was transferred for a fee potentially reaching €67 million. In his debut season, he has already showcased his talent with standout performances, including a critical goal against Liverpool.

Yohannes, also 18, recently transferred from Ajax to OL Lyon, a club renowned for its success in the Women’s Champions League. Her exceptional ability to read the game and contribute creatively in midfield has made her a key player for Lyon, where she has played in all Champions League matches this season.

Other Contenders for the Golden Boy Award

Franco Mastantuono (Real Madrid): This 18-year-old forward has shown promise despite facing injury setbacks. He has made 500 minutes in La Liga with Real Madrid, showcasing his playmaking abilities.
Lennart Karl (Bayern Munich): At just 17, Karl has become the youngest player to score in three consecutive Champions League matches, stepping up in the absence of injured star Jamal Musiala.
Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona): The 18-year-old center-back was once a favorite for the award but is currently facing challenges as Barcelona struggles defensively.
Bouaddi (Lille): This young midfielder, who turned 17 on October 2, 2024, is gaining attention for his performances in Ligue 1, attracting interest from top European clubs.

Honourable Mentions

Warren Zaïre-Emery (PSG): A talented player lacking in recent hype.
Victor Froholdt and Rodrigo Mora (FC Porto): Rising stars, needing European success for recognition.
Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal): A promising defender likely to need more game time for consideration.

Candidates for the Golden Girl Award

Katie Reid (Arsenal): The talented defender is sidelined due to an ACL injury, affecting her chances.
Iman Beney (Manchester City): After recovering from injury, she is contributing significantly to her team.
Alara Sehitler (Bayern Munich): A breakout sensation with multiple appearances and goals at Bayern.
Sydney Schertenleib (Barcelona): An exciting prospect but struggling for consistent playtime.

As we approach 2026, the competition for both the Golden Boy and Golden Girl awards is fierce. With players like Estêvão and Yohannes leading the charge, next year promises to be thrilling for football fans.