10 Teenage Stars to Watch in the Champions League

The Champions League is back this week  and a new wave of teenage talent is ready to shine on the biggest stage. 

Here are 10 youngsters you should keep an eye on 

Vasilije Adzic (Juventus, 19, Midfielder, Montenegro)

First Montenegrin to play for Juve since Vučinić. Already scored for his country and featured in the Club World Cup. Calm, technical, and fearless.

See also: Pafos FC Make Champions League Debut with David Luiz Leading Surprise Rise

Jobe Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund, 19, Midfielder, England)

Following in Jude’s footsteps at Dortmund. £27m signing from Sunderland. Strong box-to-box presence, already proving himself in Europe.

Claudio Echeverri (Bayer Leverkusen on loan from Man City, 19, Argentina)

Nicknamed El Diablito. Scored a stunning free-kick at the Club World Cup. City fans are watching closely during his Leverkusen loan.

Jorrel Hato (Chelsea, 19, Defender, Netherlands)

Ex-Ajax captain at just 17. Versatile defender with over 120 senior games. £37m Chelsea signing, tipped as one of Europe’s best young defenders.

See also: Mourinho Open to Benfica Return After Lage’s Sacking

George Ilenikhena (Monaco, 19, Striker, Nigeria/France)

Third-youngest scorer in UCL history. Already has goals vs Barcelona for both Antwerp and Monaco. Explosive pace + strength = lethal.

Franco Mastantuono (Real Madrid, 18, Midfielder, Argentina)

Madrid’s latest Argentine wonderkid. Signed for £39m from River Plate. Could become Real’s youngest UCL starter since Raúl.

Senny Mayulu (PSG, 19, Midfielder, France)

Scored in last season’s final vs Inter. Two Ligue 1 titles, two French Cups, and a Champions League medal already in his locker.

See also: Messi Shines as Inter Miami Beat Seattle to Climb to Fifth in MLS East

Rio Ngumoha (Liverpool, 17, Winger/AM, England)

Ex-Chelsea academy star. Became Liverpool’s youngest-ever scorer with a goal vs Newcastle. Direct, skillful, and fearless.

Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal, 18, Attacking midfielder, England)

Youngest-ever Premier League player (15y). Scored 9 goals last season, helped England U21s win Euros, PFA Young Player nominee.

See also: Tottenham Coach Thomas Frank Hails Defence After 1-0 Win Over Villarreal

Geovany Quenda (Sporting, 18, Winger, Portugal)

Set for £44m move to Chelsea next summer. Youngest Portuguese to start a UCL match. Key to Sporting’s domestic double + U21 Euros star.