Ranking the 5 promising youngsters who committed their long-term future to top clubs

Where does Fati rank on this list? Read to find out!
Where does Fati rank on this list? Read to find out!

#3 Emile Smith Rowe

Arsenal v AFC Wimbledon - Carabao Cup Third Round
Arsenal v AFC Wimbledon - Carabao Cup Third Round

Arsenal have turned to their recent Hale End Academy graduates to shoulder the responsibility of their young team. Emile Smith Rowe is one of the star performers in the Gunners squad and has been in great form recently. His playing style has been compared to former Arsenal great Robert Pires and the fans have nicknamed him 'Croydon De Bruyne'.

The 21-year-old is the primary source of creativity for Mikel Arteta's team, playing on the wings and as a No.10 with great effect. His ability to play at the half-turn and the urgency in his style of play have added a cutting edge to Arsenal's attack.

He has reserved his spot in the starting eleven with consistent match-winning performances this season. From being valued at €2.70m last season to his current €28m market value, Smith Rowe has deservedly earned his first England cap.

The attacking midfielder has played in 12 Premier League games this season and contributed with four goals and two assists. His new contract will keep him at the club until 2026. Aston Villa tried to price away the English international in the summer, but the north London club made it clear they won't sell him at any cost.


#2 Pedri

FC Barcelona v RC Celta - La Liga Santander
FC Barcelona v RC Celta - La Liga Santander

If there were any doubts left as to how great a player Pedri was at just 18, he cleared them all with his performances at Euro 2020. In a disappointing campaign for Barcelona, the only positive has been how good their young players have been. The Spaniard has become a sensation and will surely be one of the biggest stars in future.

Pedri's decision-making and his poise on the field are clear indicators that this kid plays way beyond his years. His positional sense is simply brilliant and he so often collects passes so effortlessly. He is the outlet for any Barcelona player looking to pass the ball.

The midfielder roams freely, moving all around the pitch and enabling the attacking players to play between the lines. The Spaniard seems to have so much time on the ball and he rarely ever panics. His distribution is precise and effortless. But in addition to being so good on the ball, his tireless workrate is an added bonus.

He recently signed a new deal with Barcelona that will keep him at the club until 2026. Barcelona have slapped an astonishing €1 billion release clause in Pedri's contract.


#1 Ansu Fati

FC Barcelona v Dinamo Kiev: Group E - UEFA Champions League
FC Barcelona v Dinamo Kiev: Group E - UEFA Champions League

We dare not say that Barcelona have found their replacement for Lionel Messi because there cannot be anyone like him. But the rightful heir to the throne sounds about right, and given it's someone from La Masia, it only adds to the excitement. In what is an exciting generation of young talent bursting onto the scene at Barcelona, Ansu Fati seems to be the crown jewel.

As far as jersey numbers go, the Catalans have already suggested that they believe the 19-year-old is fit to carry on their iconic No.10's legacy. Fati has already established a few impressive records to suggest he could be on his way to making it big.

The youngest player to score in the Champions League, the youngest to score a brace in La Liga and to score and assist in the same La Liga game are all to his name. Preferably a left-winger, the La Masia product can play as a centre-forward too.

His predatory eye for goal, nimble-feet dribbling and significant pace with the ball at his feet contributed to his excellence. The Catalan club have tied Fati with a contract that runs out in 2027. Like Pedri, Fati also has a release clause of €1 billion to ensure no other club even entertains the idea of snatching Barcelona's future star.

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