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:
Benfica // Darwin Núñez // 22 // Uruguay
In the 2019/20 season, he scored 16 goals for UD Almeria in Spain's tough second tier. This season, he appeared in 44 games for Benfica in the Portuguese domestic league, scoring 14 goals and assisting on 12 occasions. His career has gotten off to a good start. Aside from his efficacy and striking abilities, Nez is a fluid and versatile attacking player who relies on his speed, dribbling and passing abilities to disrupt any marking systems he may come across.
FC Porto // Fábio Vieira // 21 // Portugal
He's a smart winger who could also play in the centre of the field. He's also a reliable shooter, particularly from right-leaning free kicks, where he's previously scored a few goals. He also makes innovative but accurate passes. He appeared in 33 games for the team this season, scoring three times and assisting twice. Fábio Vieira, who has played for FC Porto since the start of his career, is eager to make a name for himself in his hometown club.
Vitória SC // Marcus Edwards // 22 // England/Cyprus
Edwards was one of Liga NOS's finest players in the 2019/20 season. He appeared in 36 games, scoring nine goals and assisting nine more. This left-footed winger returned to the Portuguese club for a second season. Marcus' season hasn't been as successful as his previous one, as he played the same number of games as last year but only managed to score three goals and provide three assists. The coming summer could be one to watch for him since he is a fantastic crosser and a decent finisher.
Sporting CP // Nuno Mendes // 18 // Portugal
The Portuguese left-back is a perfect fit for Sporting's tactical approach, which requires him to continuously travel back and forth along the left side. He has great speed and tenacity, as well as an acute defensive sense of placement and exceptional ball control. Nuno won the Championship with Sporting CP while playing 30 games for the club, scoring once and assisting twice. Portugal also had chosen him for the Euros 2021. Nuno appears to be simply interested in working hard and being better as a player.
