The season has ended, the positions decided and the trophies are given out. Now what? Euros of course, but other than that we take a look at the wonderkids who were touted to be the next generational talent.
We take a look at their form last season:
Manchester City // Phil Foden // 21 // England
As he's had to wait his turn, his position in the first team has slowly increased over the last few years. He aimed to push on this season after quite a season of greater gametime in 2019-20. His wish came true this season being switched between a regular starter and a substitute. He played a total of 50 matches for the Blues from Manchester scoring 16 and assisting 10. This was a season to cherish for Foden and he would certainly be hoping for more.
Manchester United // Mason Greenwood // 19 // England
The 19-year-old earned his first-team debut in 2018-19, but last season he became a more important member of the squad. Following the lockdown, he cemented himself as a constant in an explosive front three, scoring ten Premier League goals and 17 in all competitions in 19/20. This season with Martial’s absence due to a bad form, Mason Greenwood found himself playing most of the matches, that too from the right-wing. He had a bad patch at the start of the season but picked himself up scoring 12 and assisting 6 in 52 matches for the Red Devils.
Tottenham Hotspur // Ryan Sessegnon // 21 // England
He made his first-team debut in 2016-17, then had a breakout season in 17-18 as Fulham won promotion before being actively involved in their relegation battle. After that, he moved to Tottenham, although his first year was difficult due to a manager change. This year as well, he wasn’t in the manager’s books as he was loaned out to TSG Hoffenheim. He played 29 games for the German side and scored and assisted 2 and 3 respectively even though playing from left-back. At 21 he has a long way to go and should pick up his career within the coming seasons.
Chelsea // Reece James // 20 // England
In 2019/20, the right-back earned 37 appearances across all categories and concluded as the starting right-back. This season has been a boom for James playing 47 games for the Blues from London. He played a major part in the Champion’s League dream run playing 10 games. With Cesar Azpilicueta ageing and playing less, James is expected to be among the few academy products to see regular playing time in the coming season.
Honorary Mention:
Bukayo Saka, Matty Longstaff, Tariq Lamptey.