PL Generation U-20: Who To Keep An Eye On
Prognostics are always problematic because they involve a certain exasperation of reality. Today, this writer perceives potential in these young people; tomorrow, any of them can be loaned to a team in an adjacent league — it is just part of the game. What follows is a list with some names that can impress this season in the English Premier League competition that is about to begin.
Ethan Ampadu — 17 — Chelsea
I start with the youngest on the list, and perhaps the most charismatic, with his beautiful locks in the wind. Ampadu original role is that of a defender, but he can act as defensive midfielder. His most notable strengths are his thrust and ability to generate advantages when in possession of the ball — in that sense he will please new coach Maurizio Sarri.
Ryan Sessegnon — 18 — Fulham
The second on the list is someone already known, including being tipped to join the 23 members of Ryan Southgate’s list for the FIFA World Cup in Russia. Sessegnon is a left-back with depth-generating abilities. With his speed, breath and acceleration, he allows the team to climb the enemy lines with great ease, due to the amplitude he often generates. From this list he is one of the most promising players and has true potential to become a star.
Reiss Nelson — 18 — Arsenal
Not so well known, Reiss Nelson is only 18 years old, but already causes excitement in Arsenal’s youth categories thanks to his potential. His most consecrated position in the youths was the right-wing. Strikes for his speed and ability. His acceleration is particularly incredible. May the new Gunners coach, Unai Emery, give the boy a chance this season as he joins the Under-23 team at the outset.
Phil Foden — 18 — Manchester City
One of the most special names on the list, his future will be brilliant. He can play Central Midfielder, but everything indicates that he will consolidate further for his ability to decide in the final meters. As a fine mind between lines, he has everything to gain minutes with Pep Guardiola in the current season. Another with star potential, he may turn into one of the highlights of the English team to feature in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Axel Tuanzebe — 20 — Manchester United
Here we have a player who can perform multiple functions. For his speed and good handling of the ball, he can act as Side-Back and Defensive Midfielder, besides the Defense his preferred position. On loan at Aston Villa last last season, he was given a chance as Right-Back, but was notable for the good technique in the duels, always looking strong and secure. We will see if José Mourinho will concede minutes to the young English defender.
Kieran Dowell — 20 — Everton
Dowell will start the season as part of Everton’s Under-23 team. On loan at Nottingham Forest last season, he didn’t have much regularity and it can be said that, in a way, he was a little disappointed. Still, this midfielder can act more offensively — or even as a Central-midfielder — , and holds remarkable qualities. His ball control is impressive, as well as his technical gestures — he’s just beautiful to watch. In addition, he has agility to clear itself of markers, and kicks very well from medium distance. If coach Marco Silva wishes, he could use him as a reinforcement from his own “B-team”.
Tom Davies — 20 — Everton
Another Everton player already with more minutes for the Toffees’ main team, impressing by his ability to hold the ball while accelerating/pausing at will, as well as his spin and feints. He can play in almost any midfield position, always showcasing his quality on defensive duels. He can act behind the defensive line, pitching as a quarterback (in American Football terms) or as an Italian regista. Will get minutes this season, which seems logic.
Marcus Edwards — 19 — Tottenham
Closing the list, another star in the making. Left-footed, he plays mostly on the other side. He has the characteristic to get inside and float generating spaces for side-backs and for the striker. He can also act centrally in a 4–2–3–1 scheme. What impresses most are his gestures in speed: he can accelerate, stop, is so agile and precise that causes delirium to his pursuers. He is among those expected to shine with the English Team in the 2022 and 2026 WCs.
This list is not definitive, and there are very interesting players that have not been quoted. Premier League’s season is about to begin, and you most definitely will need to keep an eye on those names.
