Lamine Yamal stands out as the frontrunner to win the golden boy award

Lamine Yamal stands out as the frontrunner to win the golden boy award

Eric Munene 18:30 - 18.10.2024

Lamine Yamal seems destined to be awarded the best young player in the world.

The shortlist for the prestigious Golden Boy award has been unveiled, highlighting an impressive array of young talent vying for the title of the best under-21 player in Europe.

The Golden Boy award, which celebrates emerging stars in football, has seen legends like Lionel Messi, Wayne Rooney, and Kylian Mbappe receive the honor over its two-decade history.

Currently held by England’s Jude Bellingham, the 2024 nominees are a testament to the wealth of talent in the sport today.

Among the nominees are three promising stars from Manchester United: Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo, and Leny Yoro.

Their inclusion marks a significant recognition of their contributions to the team, especially Garnacho, who has made headlines with his electrifying performances on the wing.

The shortlist features 20 players from various top leagues across Europe, showcasing a diverse range of talent.

Notably, four English players made the cut, including Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace, highlighting the strength of English youth development.

Wharton has had a breakout year, and his nomination reflects the bright future he holds in the game.

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal stands out as a frontrunner after an explosive 2024 season, during which he not only excelled in La Liga but also played a pivotal role in Spain's Euro 2024 victory, earning the Young Player of the Tournament award.

His performances have garnered widespread acclaim, making him a strong contender for the Golden Boy.

Other notable nominees include Warren Zaire-Emery and Joao Neves from Paris Saint-Germain, as well as Jamie Bynoe-Gittens from Borussia Dortmund.

The presence of these players underscores the growing trend of clubs prioritizing youth development, with many of them already making significant impacts in their respective leagues.

The Golden Boy award has historically been a stepping stone for young talents, often marking the beginning of illustrious careers.

The Golden Boy award serves as a celebration of this talent and a glimpse into the next generation of football superstars.