Best Young Players At The 2022 FIFA World Cup

We’ve witnessed some remarkable breakout talents at the FIFA World Cup competitions from yesteryear. Players such as Pele and Kylian Mbappe have made their mark on the world stage at the quadrennial tournament. We take a look at five young players, under the age of 25, who made their mark on the tournament:

Enzo Fernandez (Argentina)

The 21-year-old was instrumental in Argentina’s triumph in Qatar. The Benfica midfielder crowned off the tournament by winning the Best Young Player of the Tournament award. La Albiceleste depended on Fernández to anchor the midfield and he even chipped in with a goal against Mexico. Fernández became undroppable to Lionel Scaloni and his performances in the semi-final and final were that of a more mature player. 

2. Jude Bellingham (England)

It’s hard to believe the Borussia Dortmund midfielder is only 19 years old, as he secured a starting berth in Gareth Southgate’s team that made it to the quarter-final stage. His goal against Iran in the 6-2 saw him become the second youngest Englishman to score at the World Cup. Bellingham’s close-ball control and passing accuracy came to the fore as he created five scoring opportunities at the tournament. A big-money move to a super club is definitely on the horizon for the former Birmingham City player.

3. Josko Gvardiol (Croatia)

The RB Leipzig defender was superb for Croatia as they secured third place in Qatar. He played seven matches and scored one goal. But it was his surefootedness at the back that caught the eye of many. At just 20 years of age, the former Zagreb man was instrumental in keeping defenses at bay and was only humbled when Lionel Messi ran him ragged in the semi-final. Chelsea and Real Madrid are said to be interested. 

4. Aurelien Tchouameni (France)

With Paul Pogba and N’golo Kante out of France’s World Cup squad, it was the turn of others such as Aurelien Tchouameni to shine for Les Bleus. The French have beaten the finalists but played excellently in Qatar. The 20-year-old’s performance and goal against England in the quarter-final had many singing the Real Madrid midfielder’s praises. 

5. Jamal Masiala (Germany)

The 19-year-old was a creative genius for the four-time champions, creating eight chances in a dismal campaign for the Germans. Musiala was one of the few players who performed well in Qatar for Hansi Flick’s team. The Bayern Munich man showed off his dribbling skills and killer passes at times, but unfortunately, it wasn’t sufficient to help the team progress.