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The World Cup is the stage where every player wants to deliver. However, while plenty of household names and the usual suspects will be turning on the style in the home of Samba this summer, there will undoubtedly be several youngsters that grab the headlines.
The times when a player could emerge as a virtual unknown and take a tournament by storm are becoming increasingly rare, given the nature of world football and the vast amount of talent from across the globe that ply their trade in Europe.
However, with the watching world desperate to see young and exciting talent embarrass seasoned professionals on a regular basis Squawka has picked a team of players aged 21 and under that have been tipped to shine in the sweltering South American sun, including some representatives from Roy Hodgson’s England World Cup squad.
Goalkeeper - Thibaut Courtois
Before the Twitter backlash begins, we’re well aware that Courtois is 22 years of age. Hypocrites? That’s us. But so few countries pick a man between the sticks whose years are so tender so the Belgian earns his place virtually unopposed.
He may well return to Chelsea for next season, but he has already earned his place in Atletico Madrid folklore and could do the same with the Red Devils in Brazil.
Right-Back - Mattia De Sciglio
The Italian full-back is accomplished on either flank, but slots into our line up on the left hand side. The 21-year-old has become a regular fixture in Milan’s side this season and has been handed the number two shirt, once worn by the legendary Cafu.
Touted as the heir to Paolo Maldini, he may not have reached the former centre-back’s heights but he has huge potential and we all know how solid, reliable and street wise Azzurri defenders turn out once they have matured.
Centre-Back - Raphael Varane
Praised as the best young centre-back in the world by Jose Mourinho, the Frenchman has earned a glowing reputation during his time with Real Madrid. Although the world was unsure how he managed to irk Diego Simeone into such a wild reaction during the Champions League final, the defender is not fazed easily.
Calm, good in the air and blessed with tecnhique and excellent positioning, the only way is up for Varane at the Bernabeu.
Left-Back - Luke Shaw
Although we constantly hear about a lack of English talent making it at the top level, Shaw has proved he is more than capable of playing in the Premier League despite being just 18 years of age. The Southampton defender has ousted veteran Ashley Cole from Roy Hodgson’s squad to board the plane to Brazil, which is a huge indication as to how highly he is rated.
Shaw enjoys pushing forward but does not neglect his defensive duties and, sorry Saints fans, it will be a miracle if he’s still at St. Mary’s next season.
Centre-Midfield - Paul Pogba
For Manchester United fans, Pogba will forever be remembered as the one that got away. Annoyed at his lack of first team opportunities, the Frenchman turned his back on Old Trafford amidst accusations that his wage demands were unrealistic from Sir Alex Ferguson.
However, he has now become one of the best young midfielders in world football at Juventus and proved that he was worth the hassle.
Centre-Midfield - Marco Verratti
Pairs Saint-Germain’s young midfielder possesses plenty of energy and does not shirk a challenge despite his small stature. The 21-year-old also has ability of the ball with a decent range of passing and provides a shield in front of the defence to allow Andrea Pirlo to pull the strings for the Azzurri.
He may still be on the fringes of Cesare Prandelli’s squad but his future is bright as long as he continues to develop in the same vein.
Right Midfield - Adnan Januzaj
The Premier League breakthrough player last season, Januzaj gave many United fans a glimmer of hope in what proved to be a disappointing campaign for the Red Devils. The teenager has outstanding ability when in possession and attacks his opposite man without fear as if he is still in the playground.
Having finally ended speculation surrounding his international future, he pledged his allegiance to the country of his birth, Belgium.
Left-Midfield - Memphis Depay
The 20-year-old left winger has become a key member of PSV Eindhoven’s side this season and his excellent form was rewarded with a place in new Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal’s Netherlands squad. Quick, direct, skilful and with a fierce shot, the youngster can evoke fear in the most accomplished defenders.
Depay possesses the exquisite technique that has become synonymous with his nation since the days of Johan Cruyff and has been linked with a lucrative transfer this summer.
Right-Forward - Raheem Sterling
Liverpool’s Jamaican born midfielder may have rushed into a challenge in the friendly against Ecuador and received his marching orders as a result, but the incident simply proved how determinated he is to impress. With the success he enjoyed on Merseyside this season he will be unlucky not to be given a place in Roy Hodgson’s starting line up but is capable of making an impact from the bench.
However, the Croydon born manager may have chosen to use him sparingly to protect him from the gaze of England’s Group D opponents. Sorry Roy, the secret is out.
Left-Forward - Julian Draxler
The Schalke 04 midfielder, who can play on either flank or through the centre of attack, has quickly been installed as the next big thing to come out of Germany’s huge talent pool and make a splash on the international stage.
His club future has been fiercely debated for a number of transfer windows but no-one has stumped up for his release clause although if he forces his way into Joachim Low’s team in Brazil, that could be about to change. Powerful, pacey and outstanding in the take on department.
Centre-Forward - Romelu Lukaku
Given how long he has been around for it is difficult to comprehend that the bulky Belgian is just 21 years of age. He has been in cracking form during his nation’s warm up matches, although his recent hat trick was chalked off by FIFA. With an injury to Christian Benteke he is set to lead the line for Marc Wilmots’ side, who are dark horses for the tournament.
Chelsea may deem him surplus to requirements, (why?), and what is the west Londoners’ loss will be one someone else’s gain. Has the potential to reach the very top. Fancy a cheeky flutter on golden boot winner? Romelu’s your man.
