Which Teenage Stars Will Shine in This Year's Champions League?

The Champions League is set to showcase a host of young talent this season, with several teenagers poised to make significant impacts on Europe's biggest stage. Stars like Chelsea's Jorrel Hato and Borussia Dortmund's Jobe Bellingham will be looking to build on their promising careers, while new names like Vasilije Adzic and Claudio Echeverri aim to shine in crucial matches.

Last updated: 04 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Several teenagers are making their mark in the Champions League this season.
• Young talents like Jorrel Hato and Jobe Bellingham are already proving themselves in top clubs.
• Players such as Vasilije Adzic and Claudio Echeverri offer exciting potential for their teams.
• Champions League matches are set to start this week, drawing attention to youth prospects.
• These young stars have already made significant contributions in their respective leagues.

The Rising Stars of the Champions League

Jorrel Hato: The Young Ajax Star at Chelsea

Jorrel Hato, aged 19, has made waves in the footballing world, becoming a standout defender during his time at Ajax. He provided six assists in the Eredivisie last season, showcasing both his defensive skills and ability to contribute to the attack. Having made over 120 club appearances, Hato has not only captained Ajax but also represented the Netherlands senior team on six occasions.

His remarkable performances led to a £37 million transfer to Chelsea in August 2023. As he embarks on his Champions League journey, Chelsea fans will be eager to see how Hato adapts to English football and whether he can maintain his impressive form in Europe.

Jobe Bellingham: Following in His Brother's Footsteps

Another exciting talent is Jobe Bellingham, the 19-year-old midfielder from Borussia Dortmund. Having moved from Sunderland after a successful promotion campaign, Bellingham has already made a name for himself, becoming the only teenager to both score and assist during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

With an initial transfer fee of £27 million, Bellingham has quickly adapted to the Bundesliga. His versatility allows him to play as both a defensive and box-to-box midfielder, providing Dortmund with valuable options in the Champions League. Facing tough opponents like Manchester City and Tottenham will be a true test of his abilities.

Vasilije Adzic: Montenegro's New Hope

At just 19 years old, Vasilije Adzic has already made history as the first Montenegrin player to debut for Juventus since Mirko Vucinic. He joined the club on a three-year contract after winning the league title with Buducnost Podgorica at the young age of 16.

Adzic made his Champions League debut last season and scored for Montenegro in his international debut. Fans will be watching closely to see if he can replicate his domestic success on the European stage, especially following Juventus' recent performances in the tournament.

Claudio Echeverri: The Argentine Wonder

Claudio Echeverri, aged 19, is another player to keep an eye on. Having signed with Manchester City for £12.5 million, he is currently on loan at Bayer Leverkusen. Echeverri made headlines at the 2025 Club World Cup by scoring from a direct free-kick, showcasing his talent at a young age.

City fans are eager to see how he develops in the Bundesliga. His impressive skill set and potential to return to City in January could make him a key player to watch during the Champions League campaign.

George Ilenikhena: A Goal-Scoring Prodigy

Nineteen-year-old George Ilenikhena has quickly established himself as a formidable striker. He made history as the third-youngest scorer in Champions League history, demonstrating his knack for finding the net in high-pressure situations.

After a successful stint with Royal Antwerp, where he helped the team win the Belgian Super Cup, Ilenikhena's move to Monaco has placed him in a competitive environment. His previous performances against Barcelona in the tournament will bolster his confidence in facing elite clubs this season.

Franco Mastantuono: The Youngest Talent at Real Madrid

Franco Mastantuono, an 18-year-old midfielder, is regarded as one of football's brightest prospects. He joined Real Madrid on his 18th birthday for a fee of £39 million, making him a significant addition to the club.

After debuting for Argentina at 17, Mastantuono's ability to influence matches has drawn attention. He is poised to make his Champions League debut soon, with expectations high for his contributions to Madrid's quest for European glory.

Senny Mayulu: PSG's Rising Midfielder

Another notable young talent is Senny Mayulu, who has already won two Ligue 1 titles and scored in the Champions League final for Paris St-Germain. At just 19, he has made a name for himself, although he primarily plays as a substitute.

His goal in the Champions League final against Inter Milan has elevated his reputation, and fans will be keen to see if he can secure a more prominent role as PSG competes in Europe this season.

Rio Ngumoha: Liverpool's Record-Breaking Youngster

Rio Ngumoha made headlines by becoming Liverpool's youngest goalscorer at just 16 years and 361 days. His pace and skill have made him a valuable asset for the Reds as they navigate the Champions League.

Having previously been at Chelsea's academy, Ngumoha's transition to Liverpool has been seamless, with impressive performances during pre-season and in competitive matches. His ability to perform on big occasions will be crucial for Liverpool's ambitions in the tournament.

Ethan Nwaneri: Arsenal's Young Sensation

At 18, Ethan Nwaneri has become a vital player for Arsenal, having already set records as the youngest player to appear in the Premier League. His nine goals last season, including two in the Champions League, have solidified his status as a rising star.

His contributions were instrumental in helping England win the European Under-21 Championship, and he will be looking to continue his impressive scoring form in the Champions League this season.

Geovany Quenda: The Portuguese Phenom

Geovany Quenda, now 18, recently made headlines as the youngest Portuguese player to start a Champions League match. His skillful play for Sporting earned him a move to Chelsea for a fee of up to £44 million.

Quenda's performances in the European Under-21 Championship, where he scored three goals, showcased his potential. He will be one to watch as he transitions to a new environment in the Premier League and aims to make an impact in the Champions League.

What Lies Ahead for These Young Stars?

The Champions League presents a unique opportunity for these young talents to prove themselves on a global stage. As matches commence this week, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring how these players adapt to the intensity and pressure of European football.

With clubs relying on their youthful prospects, the upcoming tournament could redefine the careers of these teenagers. Success in the Champions League can lead to increased visibility, potential transfers, and a lasting legacy in football history.

As the tournament progresses, it will be intriguing to see which of these young stars will rise to the occasion and make headlines across the continent. Who will emerge as the standout player this season? The stage is set, and the future of football looks bright.

FAQs

Who are the top teenage players in the Champions League this season?

Key teenage players to watch include Jorrel Hato, Jobe Bellingham, Vasilije Adzic, and Claudio Echeverri, all of whom have shown great potential in their respective clubs.

What impact can young players have in the Champions League?

Young players can significantly impact the Champions League by bringing fresh energy, creativity, and skill to their teams, often becoming game-changers in crucial matches.

How important is the Champions League for young players' careers?

The Champions League is crucial for young players as it provides exposure, experience, and opportunities to showcase their talent on a global stage, potentially leading to lucrative transfers.

What are the age records for players in the Champions League?

The youngest players to score in the Champions League include Ansu Fati, Lamine Yamal, and George Ilenikhena, showcasing the trend of young talents making their mark early in their careers.

Can young players compete with seasoned professionals in the Champions League?

Yes, young players can compete effectively with seasoned professionals, often bringing innovative play and pace that can challenge more experienced opponents.