As another year of excitement and competition in European football unfolds, fresh faces are poised to grab the spotlight. While names like Mohamed Salah, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinícius Jr. will continue to dominate headlines, several other players are set to make waves on the big stage. Experts Guillem Balague, Julien Laurens, and Raphael Honigstein have shared their picks for standout talents to watch this year.
Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt)
Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush is coming into his own at Eintracht Frankfurt. With a dynamic style of play and an impressive ability to finish, comparisons to Mohamed Salah have started to surface – though Marmoush offers a distinct skill set. Honigstein highlights Marmoush’s evolution over six years in Germany, culminating in a breakout season that now has top clubs eyeing him for an €80 million move.
Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)
Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi is gaining recognition as one of the finest in his position. His pivotal role for Spain in the European Championship final and his decision to remain at Real Sociedad, despite interest from Liverpool, have made headlines. Balague suggests Zubimendi could be a key target for Manchester City as a successor to Rodri, praising his game intelligence and leadership qualities.
Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart)
A midfield orchestrator, Angelo Stiller, is quietly driving Stuttgart’s performances. Formerly at Bayern Munich, Stiller has drawn attention for his ability to control games with precision and composure. Honigstein notes that players like Stiller are vital in modern football, where possession and ball distribution are key. A major transfer could be on the horizon if his development continues.
Maghnes Akliouche (Monaco)
At Monaco, Maghnes Akliouche has emerged as a creative force. His tireless energy and left-footed brilliance on the right wing have impressed scouts across Europe. Laurens describes him as a future star with the potential to excel in the Premier League, where his fitness and vision could shine. Akliouche’s performances in Ligue 1 and the Champions League suggest his career trajectory is set for a major leap.
Nico Paz (Como)
Argentine playmaker Nico Paz is taking Serie A by storm at just 20 years old. Currently at Como under coach Cesc Fàbregas, Paz is praised for his elegance, vision, and creativity. Balague compares him to Real Madrid legend Fernando Redondo, emphasizing his potential to fill a vital role in Madrid’s midfield. With a buy-back clause of €8 million, his return to the Spanish giants seems imminent.
Paul Wanner (Heidenheim, on loan from Bayern Munich)
Paul Wanner is making the most of his loan spell at Heidenheim. The 19-year-old midfielder is a versatile player capable of scoring, dribbling, and creating chances. Honigstein highlights Wanner’s adaptability and resilience as he navigates his development path. His international future is a point of contention, with both Germany and Austria vying for his allegiance.
Joan Martinez (Real Madrid)
Seventeen-year-old defender Joan Martinez is tipped as a future Real Madrid icon. Initially signed from Levante, his chance to train with the first team came unexpectedly after a series of injuries in the squad. Despite a cruciate ligament injury, Martinez’s potential remains undeniable, with Balague likening him to Sergio Ramos. His contract extension underscores Real Madrid’s confidence in his abilities.
European football’s ever-changing landscape ensures a steady stream of talent rising through the ranks. Whether established names or emerging prospects, these players are set to define the narrative of 2025. Fans and clubs alike will be watching closely as these stars shape the game’s future.
