Five young players set to make an impression in next season’s Champions League.
Jorginho – Napoli
The Brazilian born midfield ace made a name for himself at fellow Italian side Hellas Verona, where he helped restore them back to the top flight after a prolonged period in Serie B. Aware of his precocious talent, many were eager to see how he would fare in Serie A and it was no surprise to see him excel. His form earned him a switch to Napoli in January where he has continued to impress, even though Rafa Benitez chose to leave him out of his European squad. Whether he remains in Italy next term or makes his way to the Premier League, he is sure to make an indelible impression on Europe’s most elite club competition.
Divok Origi – Lille
The 19-year-old has exploded on to the first team this season after making such an impression in Lille’s youth academy that he could no longer be ignored. A talented and powerful striker, he made a name for himself immediately last season by scoring on his debut and he has since gone on to establish his credentials further this term. Both Liverpool and Arsenal have been circling, but with Lille seven points clear in third they have a great show at being able to put the young Belgian hit man on the world stage.
Max Meyer – Schalke 04
Julian Draxler isn’t the only impressive young star that the club have produced lately, as 18-year-old Max Meyer has been grabbing just as many headlines as his supposedly Arsenal bound teammate. Quick footed and more than comfortable with the ball at his feet, he has frequently drawn comparisons with compatriot Mario Gotze as well as Lionel Messi. He has already tasted Champions League football this term, and with that experience under his belt he will be set to make an even more almighty impression on the tournament next season.
William Carvalho – Sporting Lisbon
The 22-year-old has spent the bulk of his time with Sporting out on loan, and whatever Fatima and Cercle Brugge taught him appears to have paid off as Manchester United have scouted him over ten times already and reports have suggested that a £35m deal is already in place. However, until that deal is confirmed he will be making his first venture into the Champions League with Sporting next season.
Memphis Depay – PSV Eindhoven
For a left winger Depay has an astonishing eye for goal that only looks to become more attuned the more he plays. He has already made a strong impression on the Europa League this term and as PPSV continue to hound Ajax for the Eredivisie title. However, whether they win the title or not they look to have already secured a spot in next season’s Champions League and Depay will be one of the main components of any success they are likely to have in the competition.