Emerging Talents: Ten Teenagers to Watch in the Champions League 2025-26

Mon Oct 20 2025 02:37:22 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League season features a host of teenage stars eager to leave their mark on European football. Here's a look at ten young talents who are poised to shine.

With the Champions League back in action, we spotlight ten promising teenagers set to make an impact this season. From Vasilije Adzic at Juventus to Ethan Nwaneri at Arsenal, these young players exemplify the future of football across Europe.

Emerging Talents: Ten Teenagers to Watch in the Champions League 2025-26

The UEFA Champions League returns, bringing excitement and the promise of young talents making their mark. Last season's standout performances from teenagers like Desire Doue of Paris St-Germain and Lamine Yamal of Barcelona set a benchmark for the next generation. This year's tournament features a fresh batch of 10 teenagers who are prepared to shine on the big stage.

1. Vasilije Adzic (Juventus)

Age: 19 | Position: Midfielder | Nationality: Montenegrin

Adzic made headlines by becoming the first Montenegrin to play for Juventus in a decade. After his impressive debut season, he's ready to contribute further in the Champions League.

2. Jobe Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund)

Age: 19 | Position: Midfielder | Nationality: English

Bellingham’s move to Dortmund follows in the footsteps of his brother, Jude. He's already made an impact at club world events and is expected to excel in Europe.

3. Claudio Echeverri (Bayer Leverkusen, on loan from Manchester City)

Age: 19 | Position: Attacking Midfielder/Winger | Nationality: Argentine

Having recently impressed in the Club World Cup, Echeverri's loan to Leverkusen includes expectations for key contributions in the Champions League.

4. Jorrel Hato (Chelsea)

Age: 19 | Position: Defender | Nationality: Dutch

After a strong season in the Eredivisie, Hato's capabilities on the field make him a player to watch as Chelsea aims for European glory.

5. George Ilenikhena (Monaco)

Age: 19 | Position: Striker | Nationality: Nigerian/French

Ilenikhena burst onto the scene with goals against Barcelona, showcasing his talent in the Champions League during his last two seasons.

6. Franco Mastantuono (Real Madrid)

Age: 18 | Position: Midfielder | Nationality: Argentine

Real Madrid’s latest gem, Mastantuono, could become the youngest player to start a Champions League match for the club, adding to his budding legacy.

7. Senny Mayulu (Paris St-Germain)

Age: 19 | Position: Midfielder | Nationality: French

Mayulu’s notable performance in the Champions League final solidified his position as a key player for PSG moving forward.

8. Rio Ngumoha (Liverpool)

Age: 17 | Position: Winger/Attacking Midfielder | Nationality: English

Ngumoha’s record as Liverpool's youngest goalscorer puts him in the spotlight as he seeks to impact the Champions League this season.

9. Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal)

Age: 18 | Position: Attacking Midfielder/Winger | Nationality: English

The talented Nwaneri continues to prove himself as one of the youngest and most promising players in the league and is creating a name for himself on the European stage.