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With football as profitable as it is, clubs often look to sign the next big thing to either secure glory or make a hefty profit on the player in question. The likes of Wayne Rooney, Javier Saviola, Alexandre Pato and Sergio Agüero transferred in their teenage years for millions of pounds, despite the risk of spending big on a player so young.
Some live up to their billing, while others simply fail to handle the pressure of performing on the grand stage at their age as a result of the large fee paid to secure their services. Nevertheless, a number of teens have exhibited their quality to the watching world this season as they strive to reach their potential.
Using WhoScored’s unique rating system, of every performer to have made at least 10 appearances, we look at the top 5 rated teenagers in Europe’s top 5 leagues this season.
Raheem Sterling (7.31) – Liverpool
Having been handed the chance to showcase his talents by Brendan Rodgers last season, Raheem Sterling has become a key member of the Reds starting XI this term, making 21 league appearances, 15 of which have been starts. Alongside Luis Suárez and Daniel Sturridge in the attack, the 19-year-old has come on leaps and bounds as Liverpool look to secure a top 4 finish.
Bagging a brace against Arsenal in Saturday’s 5-1 win took his Premier League tally for the season to 5, with another 2 assists to his name thus far. In a World Cup year, Sterling is coming into form at just the right time as he looks to force his way into Roy Hodgson’s 23-man squad for Brazil 2014.
The winger is currently averaging 2.6 dribbles per game, accumulating a matching WhoScored strength in turn, with his figure bettered only by Suárez (2.9) of every Liverpool player. Such is his ability with the ball that Sterling has also won the most penalties (3) in England’s top tier this term, highlighting how he’s able to draw fouls in dangerous positions for the benefit of the team. His average rating of 7.31 emphasises how key he has been in the Reds’ pursuit of a return to the Champions League.
