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The 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup is almost upon us as the footballing world descends upon India for what will be the biggest footballing event the world's second most populous country has ever witnessed.
Like in the past where modern-day greats like Ronaldinho, Luis Figo, Toni Kroos< Cesc Fabregas shined, many young and budding footballers will hope to make a name for themselves on the global stage next month at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
Here is the list of five players to watch out for during the tournament.
5. Amine Gouiri - France
Amine Gouiri is the hottest prospect of French giants Olympique Lyonnais. Gouiri was the top scorer during the Euro Under-17 earlier this year with eight goals to his name, and the 17-year-old is expected to do great things in the upcoming World Cup. The Frenchman can run riot at this World Cup and will be one to watch out for whenever France take the field.
4. Abel Ruiz - Spain
Abel Ruiz captained the Spain side that won the Under-17 European Championship in May. The 17-year-old is a product of Barcelona’s legendary youth academy La Masia. He scored four goals and registered three assists during the U-17 Euros and is touted to be one of the stars of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
3. Josh Sargent - USA
After impressing at the Under-20 World Cup for the USA, Josh Sargent will now become only the second player to represent the United States in two World Cups in the same year. The American shined on the global stage scoring four goals at the Under-20 World Cup and will look to repeat his goalscoring record this time around in India.
2. Vinicius Jr - Brazil
Real Madrid splashed €45 million for the signing of the 16-year-old Brazilian wonder kid and without doubt, all eyes will be on him at the Under-17 World Cup. He is widely tipped to become the "next Neymar" for Brazil and will come to India with a reputation to do justice. Expect some fireworks from the Flamengo star.
1. Komal Thatal - India
Komal Thatal made history by becoming the first-ever Indian player to score against Brazil when he netted against the Canarinhos in the BRICS U-17 Tournament in Goa last year. This diminutive playmaker, a product of Namchi Football Academy, has proven his abilities on the pitch with his smooth control of the ball and his goal against Brazil oozed class.
The nimble-footed forward aspires to play for a foreign club one day, and what better stage to announce yourself than in a World Cup hosted on home soil.
