2007 – Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid)
Sergio Aguero was the winner of the Golden Boy award in 2007, in his spell with Atletico Madrid. The Argentine’s reputation as a striker has only grown ever since with many considering him to be among the finest marksmen in the world currently. After a 5-year spell at Madrid, Aguero moved to Manchester City in 2011 and has since grown into a fearsome predator. With about 147 goals in 214 appearances for City, he has an astonishing record as a goalscorer.
He is the highest South American scorer in the history of the Premier League, and reached 100 goals in the division faster than any player other than Alan Shearer. The future winners of the award have a role model to follow in Aguero.
2008 – Anderson (Manchester United)
Anderson, who was bought by Manchester United in 2007 from FC Porto, was probably the first player to have an underwhelming career after winning the Golden boy award. The Brazilian was highly rated as a youngster and even played a part in United’s 2008 Champions League final win against Chelsea. But he never could cement himself at Old Trafford through a combination of injuries and concerns about his waistline.
He was sent on loan to Fiorentina at one point and then ultimately shipped off to Brazilian side Internacional. Even then, he was part of 4 Premier League-winning Manchester United sides.
