Top of the class
After just five matchdays, over 50 teenagers have already played in the Champions League this season. Here, listed from youngest to oldest, we take our pick of the top 25 catching our eye
WORDS Chris Burke, Dom Hogan, Aaryan Parasnis
Insight
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Max Dowman
15 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠31/12/2009 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
15 years, 10 months, 4 days
Thereâs no other way to put it â Max Dowman is a freak of nature. At 15 years old, he has already become the youngest-ever Champions League player, and heâs shattering similar records pretty much every time he steps onto a pitch. The right-winger boasts all the fearless confidence youâd expect in a teen, while his close control and gift for dribbling have inspired one Arsenal youth coach to dub him âthe next KakĂĄâ. He very much puts the âkidâ in âwonderkidâ but never looks overawed, which is why Mikel Arteta has felt comfortable throwing Dowman in at the deep end.
Rio Ngumoha
17 years |Â Liverpool
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠29/08/2008 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 19 days
Spare a thought for Europeâs right-backs if Rio Ngumoha continues his trajectory. Snapped up from Chelsea in 2024, the pacy left-winger loves nothing more than running at defenders, his quick feet and audacious creativity often leaving them dizzy. The 17-year-oldâs fearlessness has earned him a fan in Liverpool coach Arne Slot, who sent the livewire on against AtlĂŠtico de Madrid in September to become the clubâs youngest-ever player in European competition. That came after Ngumohaâs 100th-minute Premier League winner away to Newcastle in August, the then 16 year-old also setting a new benchmark as the Redsâ youngest scorer.
Dastan Satpayev
17 years |Â Kairat Almaty
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/08/2008 ⢠ 5/1
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 1 month, 6 days
Kairatâs Kazakh prospect Dastan Satpayev has already agreed a deal to join Chelsea at the end of the season, which tells you plenty about how prodigious a talent he is. Likened to Kylian MbappĂŠ by Kazakh media outlets, Satpayev made history on Matchday 5 when he became the third-youngest player ever to score in the Champions League at 17 years and 106 days. He has been prolific in Kazakh domestic action this term, not just scoring goals but providing them, and his speed and agility are sure to make him a force to be reckoned with when he does eventually arrive in the Premier League.
Viktor DaĂ°ason
17 years |Â Copenhagen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠30/06/2008 ⢠ 3/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 3 months, 21 days
Still only 17, Icelandic forward Viktor DaĂ°ason has blitzed his way through the Copenhagen youth set-up since joining in 2024, and now finds himself fourth on the Champions Leagueâs youngest scorersâ list. After his debut effort against Borussia Dortmund in October, the towering striker netted again against Kairat Almaty to become the youngest player ever to score in multiple matches, snatching the record from Lamine Yamal. âItâs not the last we have seen of him, either in the short or long term,â vowed FCK coach Jacob Neestrup, who will be far from alone in tracking his progress.
Honest Ahanor
17 years |Â Atalanta
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠23/02/2008 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 6 months, 25 days
Atalanta made a sizeable investment when they snared Honest Ahanor from Genoa in the summer, coach Ivan JuriÄ admitting it was a âriskyâ move. After a period of adaptation, the risk is now paying off, with the 17-year-old finding his feet in La Deaâs three-man rearguard after starting out as a left-back. Ahanorâs grounding as a full-back has given him confidence to push forward and help build attacks, while his recovery pace and powerful physique make him a dominant figure in defence. âHe has physicality, intelligence and character,â says JuriÄ, who hasnât hesitated to field the versatile youngster in high- stakes Champions League games.
Lennart Karl
17 years |Â Bayern MĂźnchen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠22/02/2008 ⢠ 3/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 8 days
âMy first touch wasnât perfect, but then I was in the zone.â So said Lennart Karl about a goal that looked pretty much flawless to everyone else, the 17-year-old surging through a swarm of Club Brugge players in October before arrowing a left-footed shot into the top corner from outside the area. With that, the nimble playmaker became Bayernâs youngest scorer in the Champions League â inside the opening five minutes of his first start in the competition. No wonder the clubâs fans are excited about the future, Karlâs futsal-honed technique combining with superior intelligence and a knack for long-range stunners to make him an instant crowd favourite.
Ibrahim Mbaye
17 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠24/01/2008 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 24 days
The best person to ask for an opinion on Ibrahim Mbaye might be Jules KoundĂŠ. The Barcelona full-back was given a torrid time by Mbaye back in October, when the Paris forward was a bustling, high-energy threat, popping up on both flanks and eager to run at defenders during a 2-1 away victory for the European champions. Seen as the next academy gem waiting in the wings after Parisâ triumph last term, the 17-year- old has enjoyed increased playing time this season, earning the trust of coach Luis Enrique and that first Champions League start against Barça. Expect plenty more.
Dro FernĂĄndez
17 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/01/2008 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 9 months, 9 days
A hybrid winger/attacking midfielder with a unique name to set him apart from every other Pedro FernĂĄndez in the game, Dro looks to be yet another marvel from Barcelonaâs La Masia academy. Lithe and fearless, the 17-year-old is a capable ball carrier who loves an assist, even grabbing one on his Champions League debut against Olympiacos in October. Heâs also adept at arriving late in the box to provide a scoring option, one more reason why his former coaches Javi Roxo and Luis reckon âhis talent is infiniteâ, not to mention reminiscent of Barça great AndrĂŠs Iniesta.
Franco Mastantuono
18 years |Â Real Madrid
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠14/08/2007 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 1 month, 2 days
Widely considered a future pillar of Argentinian football, Franco Mastantuono has a frightening array of tools in his kit. The attacking midfielder has a mean left foot that can strike from distance both in open play and from set pieces, while heâs a fine dribbler with keen spatial awareness and a crisp first touch. Having set a new record as River Plateâs youngest scorer in 2024, Mastantuono was snapped up by Madrid this summer, and has since opened his goal account in La Liga and become the clubâs youngest starter in the Champions League â no small feat given Los Blancosâ European pedigree.
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Lamine Yamal
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠13/07/2007 ⢠ 27/7
Age at UCL debut
16 years, 2 months, 6 days
A once-in-a-generation phenomenon so ridiculously gifted that only one question remains: is Lamine Yamal merely the best young player in the world or the best player in the world, full stop? A European champion with Spain the day after his 17th birthday, the irrepressible winger has been turning games and thrilling spectators with playful ease, his sumptuous dribbling skills and pinpoint shooting inevitably prompting comparisons with Barcelona predecessor Lionel Messi. Although a groin injury has dulled his impact this season, the 18-year-old looks destined to hoover up trophies and individual awards for many years to come.
Marc Bernal
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/05/2007 ⢠ 2/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 4 months, 5 days
A tall, lanky midfielder who is cool under pressure, keeps things simple but has an elegant flair? Itâs no surprise that Barcelona fans quickly likened Marc Bernal to Sergio Busquets upon his emergence last season. The 18-year-old immediately looked astute at reading the game, before an unfortunate ACL tear just ten days on from his debut. After more than a year out, Bernal returned this September, grabbing an assist in his first game back against Valencia with a pinpoint through ball to Robert Lewandowski. Given the nature of the injury, Barcelona are being careful with his minutes, but the talent is undeniable.
EstĂŞvĂŁo
18 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠24/04/2007 ⢠ 5/3
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 4 months, 24 days
Electric is the first word that comes to mind when describing EstĂŞvĂŁo, who had Chelsea fans on their feet after his incredible dribble and finish into the roof of the net against Barcelona. His speed, balance and eye-catching dexterity earned him the nickname Messinho in reference to a certain Argentinian, and he has already made a splash with five goals in three Champions League outings. âFor this club in the next five to ten years, he will be a top, top, top player,â says coach Enzo Maresca. A treble âtopâ from the gaffer? That has to count for something.
Ethan Nwaneri
18 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠21/03/2007 ⢠ 9/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 16 days
For Ethan Nwaneri to be 18 years old and still have made his debut over three years ago is something else, quite frankly. Mikel Arteta admitted the Arsenal youngsterâs talent is ârare to seeâ, which goes some way to explaining why he has become more of a regular in the last 12 months. With seven Champions League appearances and two goals last season, including a screamer against Girona, he has already showed the rest of Europe what he can do, whether thatâs filling in for Martin Ădegaard through the middle or deputising out wide for Bukayo Saka to brilliant effect.
Geovany Quenda
18 years |Â Sporting CP
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠30/04/2007 ⢠ 5/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 4 months, 18 days
âThis kid is special,â said Thierry Henry after marvelling at Geovany Quendaâs feints, dodges and composed finish against Kairat Almaty in September. âHe has no fear. You would expect that from a youngster, but thereâs something special about him.â A graduate of Sportingâs Academia Cristiano Ronaldo, Quenda is a true footballing specimen. He possesses raw pace, agility and acceleration to go with his penchant for driving directly at defenders â and usually getting past them. Those qualities convinced Chelsea to open their cheque-book in March, and the 18-year-old winger will complete his move from Lisbon to London in summer 2026.
Pau CubarsĂ
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠22/01/2007 ⢠ 21/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 1 month, 19 days
Dubbed âan eruption of talentâ by former Barcelona coach Xavi HernĂĄndez, Pau CubarsĂ made a blistering impression on his Champions League bow in March 2024. The youngest player ever to debut in the knockout stage, the then 17-year-old put in a complete performance as Barça defeated Napoli 3-1 to reach the quarter-finals. Not just ice cool in his silencing of Victor Osimhen, the centre-back showed off his uncanny passing ability, marking him out as the rightful heir to Gerard PiquĂŠ. âPau was never nervous,â added Xavi. âHe creates time for himself, he dictates the tempo â itâs simply spectacular watching him play.â
Christos Mouzakitis
18 years |Â Olympiacos
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠5/12/2006 ⢠ 5/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 8 months, 23 days
Arguably the crown jewel of Olympiacosâ 2023/24 UEFA Youth League-winning side, Christos Mouzakitis is a left-footed midfield instigator who seemingly has it all. With multiple Greece caps already to his name, the 18-year- old has piqued the interest of several European giants thanks to his range of passing and ability to break through defensive lines. âMy role model is Luka ModriÄ,â Mouzakitis revealed back in 2023. âIâve liked him since I was little.â Low centre of gravity, metronomic passing and game intelligence â itâs easy to see just how much of an influence the Croatian Ballon dâOr winner has been.
Miles Lewis-Skelly
19 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/09/2006 ⢠ 14/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 5 days
While many had foretold the rise of Nwaneri at Arsenalâs Hale End academy, Miles Lewis-Skellyâs burst onto the scene came as more of a surprise last term. Handed his debut in a fiery 2-2 draw with Manchester City, Lewis-Skelly quickly emerged as one of the Premier Leagueâs best left-backs in 2024/25, form he carried into the Champions League. Against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, he was implacable in holding down the left flank, both home and away, showing that he is not just a tremendous talent but a young man with a head for the big occasions.
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Christian Kofane
19 years |Â Bayer Leverkusen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/07/2006 ⢠ 5/1
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 1 month, 23 days
Leverkusenâs sporting director Simon Rolfes described Christian Kofane as an âextremely powerful and quick strikerâ shortly after bringing the Cameroonian from the Spanish second division to the Bundesliga in July. A surprise move perhaps, but one that is bearing fruit, with the 19-year-old notching four goals and four assists in his first 15 games. Those feats included his opener in a 1-1 draw with PSV Eindhoven, booking his place in Leverkusenâs record books as the clubâs youngest Champions League scorer. Compared by some to Hugo EkitikĂŠ, his impressive physicality ought to continue serving him well.
Senny Mayulu
19 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠17/05/2006 ⢠ 8/3
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 5 months, 5 days
Who can forget the look of joy and disbelief on Senny Mayuluâs face after capping Parisâ 5-0 triumph against Inter Milan in last seasonâs final? Thumping the ball inside the near post, the 19-year-old became the third-youngest scorer in a European Cup showpiece, a statement strike that he has built on this term. Praised for his intelligence and ability with both feet by Paris coach Luis Enrique, Mayulu can operate in multiple midfield roles or even lead the attack â as he did away to Barcelona on Matchday 2, sparking a 2-1 comeback success with a tidy finish for the equaliser.
Warren ZaĂŻre-Emery
19 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠08/03/2006 ⢠ 31/2
Age at UCL debut
16 years, 7 months, 17 days
Perhaps the most telling fact about Warren ZaĂŻre-Emeryâs precocity is that heâs already experiencing a comeback. Whereas most players his age are still emerging, the elegant midfielder has a career that can be measured in phases, the stunning momentum he enjoyed after his Paris debut at the age of 16 having stalled last season. No teenager in history has played more Champions League games than ZaĂŻre-Emeryâs 31, and this term he has taken advantage of injuries to reclaim a starting berth, his confidence evident as he showcases the assured technique and box-to-box prowess that originally marked him out as a serious talent.
Archie Gray
19 years |Â Tottenham Hotspur
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/03/2006 ⢠  3/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 6 months, 18 days
Having joined from boyhood club Leeds in summer 2024, Archie Gray went on to provide consistency and reliability for a Spurs side undergoing something of a turbulent campaign. He played every position in defence during his 46 games last season, also operating as a holding and central midfielder as he showcased his ludicrous versatility. In Gray, Spurs have a young jack of all trades who brings technical ability, adaptability and a maturity beyond his years. No wonder former Leeds United coach Marcelo Bielsa once put in a request for him to miss classes in order to train with the first team.
Josh Acheampong
19 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠05/05/2006 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 4 months, 25 days
For all the money Chelsea have spent in recent seasons on recruiting youngsters from across the globe, itâs perhaps ironic that one of their breakout stars should come from their very own academy. Josh Acheampong has been in or around the first team for the last two years, having debuted for the Blues back in May 2024, but itâs this season that he has truly taken a step forward in terms of playing time. Capable of playing either at right-back or in the heart of the defence, 19-year- old Acheampong is athletic, composed and versatile â not a bad combination.
Jorrel Hato
19 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠07/03/2006 ⢠ 2/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 7 months, 15 days
Fate had a trick up its sleeve when Jorrel Hato made his Champions League debut in October, the 19-year-old joining the elite against the club he left this summer â Ajax. The Dutch international made over 100 appearances for the Amsterdam side, including a first appearance at 16 and wearing the captainâs armband for a Europa League game aged just 17. Strong, quick and technically proficient, Hato has alternated at centre-back and left-back since his breakthrough, receiving praise too for an eagerness to join attacks. âHis all-round game is top,â says Chelsea team-mate Tosin Adarabioyo. âThe way Iâve seen him go forward in training is amazing.â
Lucas Bergvall
19 years |Â Tottenham Hotspur
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠02/02/2006 ⢠  4/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 7 months, 14 days
Any teenager pursued by Barcelona before their 18th birthday is obviously doing something right, but to be voted Spursâ player of the season by the official supportersâ club last term marked Lucas Bergvall out as special. That wonât have been news to the midfielderâs former youth coach Peter Kisfaludy, who says that Bergvall âhas the most talent of anybodyâ he ever worked with at Brommapojkarna, Swedenâs unofficial wonderkid production facility. Bergvall possesses that oh-so-enviable blend of silky dribbling, athleticism and elevated technique â as well as the confidence to put it all together. Even the mighty Barça may be ruing what they missed out on.
Claudio Echeverri
19 years |Â Bayer Leverkusen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠02/01/2006 ⢠  4/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 8 months, 16 days
Tipped for greatness in his native Argentina, Claudio Echeverri has had to be patient since his big move to Europe at the start of 2025. Having swapped River Plate for Manchester City in January, the dynamic playmaker eventually made his bow for Pep Guardiolaâs side in May â unable to prevent defeat by Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final but earning a special mention. âEvery time he was around that box, it was a dangerous situation,â raved his coach, now following his progress on loan at Leverkusen, where Echeverriâs tricky dribbling led to a last-gasp equaliser on his Champions League debut against Copenhagen.
Max Dowman
15 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠31/12/2009 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
15 years, 10 months, 4 days
Thereâs no other way to put it â Max Dowman is a freak of nature. At 15 years old, he has already become the youngest-ever Champions League player, and heâs shattering similar records pretty much every time he steps onto a pitch. The right-winger boasts all the fearless confidence youâd expect in a teen, while his close control and gift for dribbling have inspired one Arsenal youth coach to dub him âthe next KakĂĄâ. He very much puts the âkidâ in âwonderkidâ but never looks overawed, which is why Mikel Arteta has felt comfortable throwing Dowman in at the deep end.
Rio Ngumoha
17 years |Â Liverpool
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠29/08/2008 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 19 days
Spare a thought for Europeâs right-backs if Rio Ngumoha continues his trajectory. Snapped up from Chelsea in 2024, the pacy left-winger loves nothing more than running at defenders, his quick feet and audacious creativity often leaving them dizzy. The 17-year-oldâs fearlessness has earned him a fan in Liverpool coach Arne Slot, who sent the livewire on against AtlĂŠtico de Madrid in September to become the clubâs youngest-ever player in European competition. That came after Ngumohaâs 100th-minute Premier League winner away to Newcastle in August, the then 16 year-old also setting a new benchmark as the Redsâ youngest scorer.
Dastan Satpayev
17 years |Â Kairat Almaty
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/08/2008 ⢠ 5/1
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 1 month, 6 days
Kairatâs Kazakh prospect Dastan Satpayev has already agreed a deal to join Chelsea at the end of the season, which tells you plenty about how prodigious a talent he is. Likened to Kylian MbappĂŠ by Kazakh media outlets, Satpayev made history on Matchday 5 when he became the third-youngest player ever to score in the Champions League at 17 years and 106 days. He has been prolific in Kazakh domestic action this term, not just scoring goals but providing them, and his speed and agility are sure to make him a force to be reckoned with when he does eventually arrive in the Premier League.
Viktor DaĂ°ason
17 years |Â Copenhagen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠30/06/2008 ⢠ 3/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 3 months, 21 days
Still only 17, Icelandic forward Viktor DaĂ°ason has blitzed his way through the Copenhagen youth set-up since joining in 2024, and now finds himself fourth on the Champions Leagueâs youngest scorersâ list. After his debut effort against Borussia Dortmund in October, the towering striker netted again against Kairat Almaty to become the youngest player ever to score in multiple matches, snatching the record from Lamine Yamal. âItâs not the last we have seen of him, either in the short or long term,â vowed FCK coach Jacob Neestrup, who will be far from alone in tracking his progress.
Honest Ahanor
17 years |Â Atalanta
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠23/02/2008 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 6 months, 25 days
Atalanta made a sizeable investment when they snared Honest Ahanor from Genoa in the summer, coach Ivan JuriÄ admitting it was a âriskyâ move. After a period of adaptation, the risk is now paying off, with the 17-year-old finding his feet in La Deaâs three-man rearguard after starting out as a left-back. Ahanorâs grounding as a full-back has given him confidence to push forward and help build attacks, while his recovery pace and powerful physique make him a dominant figure in defence. âHe has physicality, intelligence and character,â says JuriÄ, who hasnât hesitated to field the versatile youngster in high- stakes Champions League games.
Lennart Karl
17 years |Â Bayern MĂźnchen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠22/02/2008 ⢠ 3/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 8 days
âMy first touch wasnât perfect, but then I was in the zone.â So said Lennart Karl about a goal that looked pretty much flawless to everyone else, the 17-year-old surging through a swarm of Club Brugge players in October before arrowing a left-footed shot into the top corner from outside the area. With that, the nimble playmaker became Bayernâs youngest scorer in the Champions League â inside the opening five minutes of his first start in the competition. No wonder the clubâs fans are excited about the future, Karlâs futsal-honed technique combining with superior intelligence and a knack for long-range stunners to make him an instant crowd favourite.
Ibrahim Mbaye
17 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠24/01/2008 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 24 days
The best person to ask for an opinion on Ibrahim Mbaye might be Jules KoundĂŠ. The Barcelona full-back was given a torrid time by Mbaye back in October, when the Paris forward was a bustling, high-energy threat, popping up on both flanks and eager to run at defenders during a 2-1 away victory for the European champions. Seen as the next academy gem waiting in the wings after Parisâ triumph last term, the 17-year- old has enjoyed increased playing time this season, earning the trust of coach Luis Enrique and that first Champions League start against Barça. Expect plenty more.
Dro FernĂĄndez
17 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/01/2008 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 9 months, 9 days
A hybrid winger/attacking midfielder with a unique name to set him apart from every other Pedro FernĂĄndez in the game, Dro looks to be yet another marvel from Barcelonaâs La Masia academy. Lithe and fearless, the 17-year-old is a capable ball carrier who loves an assist, even grabbing one on his Champions League debut against Olympiacos in October. Heâs also adept at arriving late in the box to provide a scoring option, one more reason why his former coaches Javi Roxo and Luis reckon âhis talent is infiniteâ, not to mention reminiscent of Barça great AndrĂŠs Iniesta.
Franco Mastantuono
18 years |Â Real Madrid
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠14/08/2007 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 1 month, 2 days
Widely considered a future pillar of Argentinian football, Franco Mastantuono has a frightening array of tools in his kit. The attacking midfielder has a mean left foot that can strike from distance both in open play and from set pieces, while heâs a fine dribbler with keen spatial awareness and a crisp first touch. Having set a new record as River Plateâs youngest scorer in 2024, Mastantuono was snapped up by Madrid this summer, and has since opened his goal account in La Liga and become the clubâs youngest starter in the Champions League â no small feat given Los Blancosâ European pedigree.
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Lamine Yamal
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠13/07/2007 ⢠ 27/7
Age at UCL debut
16 years, 2 months, 6 days
A once-in-a-generation phenomenon so ridiculously gifted that only one question remains: is Lamine Yamal merely the best young player in the world or the best player in the world, full stop? A European champion with Spain the day after his 17th birthday, the irrepressible winger has been turning games and thrilling spectators with playful ease, his sumptuous dribbling skills and pinpoint shooting inevitably prompting comparisons with Barcelona predecessor Lionel Messi. Although a groin injury has dulled his impact this season, the 18-year-old looks destined to hoover up trophies and individual awards for many years to come.
Marc Bernal
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/05/2007 ⢠ 2/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 4 months, 5 days
A tall, lanky midfielder who is cool under pressure, keeps things simple but has an elegant flair? Itâs no surprise that Barcelona fans quickly likened Marc Bernal to Sergio Busquets upon his emergence last season. The 18-year-old immediately looked astute at reading the game, before an unfortunate ACL tear just ten days on from his debut. After more than a year out, Bernal returned this September, grabbing an assist in his first game back against Valencia with a pinpoint through ball to Robert Lewandowski. Given the nature of the injury, Barcelona are being careful with his minutes, but the talent is undeniable.
EstĂŞvĂŁo
18 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠24/04/2007 ⢠ 5/3
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 4 months, 24 days
Electric is the first word that comes to mind when describing EstĂŞvĂŁo, who had Chelsea fans on their feet after his incredible dribble and finish into the roof of the net against Barcelona. His speed, balance and eye-catching dexterity earned him the nickname Messinho in reference to a certain Argentinian, and he has already made a splash with five goals in three Champions League outings. âFor this club in the next five to ten years, he will be a top, top, top player,â says coach Enzo Maresca. A treble âtopâ from the gaffer? That has to count for something.
Ethan Nwaneri
18 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠21/03/2007 ⢠ 9/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 16 days
For Ethan Nwaneri to be 18 years old and still have made his debut over three years ago is something else, quite frankly. Mikel Arteta admitted the Arsenal youngsterâs talent is ârare to seeâ, which goes some way to explaining why he has become more of a regular in the last 12 months. With seven Champions League appearances and two goals last season, including a screamer against Girona, he has already showed the rest of Europe what he can do, whether thatâs filling in for Martin Ădegaard through the middle or deputising out wide for Bukayo Saka to brilliant effect.
Geovany Quenda
18 years |Â Sporting CP
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠30/04/2007 ⢠ 5/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 4 months, 18 days
âThis kid is special,â said Thierry Henry after marvelling at Geovany Quendaâs feints, dodges and composed finish against Kairat Almaty in September. âHe has no fear. You would expect that from a youngster, but thereâs something special about him.â A graduate of Sportingâs Academia Cristiano Ronaldo, Quenda is a true footballing specimen. He possesses raw pace, agility and acceleration to go with his penchant for driving directly at defenders â and usually getting past them. Those qualities convinced Chelsea to open their cheque-book in March, and the 18-year-old winger will complete his move from Lisbon to London in summer 2026.
Pau CubarsĂ
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠22/01/2007 ⢠ 21/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 1 month, 19 days
Dubbed âan eruption of talentâ by former Barcelona coach Xavi HernĂĄndez, Pau CubarsĂ made a blistering impression on his Champions League bow in March 2024. The youngest player ever to debut in the knockout stage, the then 17-year-old put in a complete performance as Barça defeated Napoli 3-1 to reach the quarter-finals. Not just ice cool in his silencing of Victor Osimhen, the centre-back showed off his uncanny passing ability, marking him out as the rightful heir to Gerard PiquĂŠ. âPau was never nervous,â added Xavi. âHe creates time for himself, he dictates the tempo â itâs simply spectacular watching him play.â
Christos Mouzakitis
18 years |Â Olympiacos
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠5/12/2006 ⢠ 5/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 8 months, 23 days
Arguably the crown jewel of Olympiacosâ 2023/24 UEFA Youth League-winning side, Christos Mouzakitis is a left-footed midfield instigator who seemingly has it all. With multiple Greece caps already to his name, the 18-year- old has piqued the interest of several European giants thanks to his range of passing and ability to break through defensive lines. âMy role model is Luka ModriÄ,â Mouzakitis revealed back in 2023. âIâve liked him since I was little.â Low centre of gravity, metronomic passing and game intelligence â itâs easy to see just how much of an influence the Croatian Ballon dâOr winner has been.
Miles Lewis-Skelly
19 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/09/2006 ⢠ 14/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 5 days
While many had foretold the rise of Nwaneri at Arsenalâs Hale End academy, Miles Lewis-Skellyâs burst onto the scene came as more of a surprise last term. Handed his debut in a fiery 2-2 draw with Manchester City, Lewis-Skelly quickly emerged as one of the Premier Leagueâs best left-backs in 2024/25, form he carried into the Champions League. Against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, he was implacable in holding down the left flank, both home and away, showing that he is not just a tremendous talent but a young man with a head for the big occasions.
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Christian Kofane
19 years |Â Bayer Leverkusen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/07/2006 ⢠ 5/1
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 1 month, 23 days
Leverkusenâs sporting director Simon Rolfes described Christian Kofane as an âextremely powerful and quick strikerâ shortly after bringing the Cameroonian from the Spanish second division to the Bundesliga in July. A surprise move perhaps, but one that is bearing fruit, with the 19-year-old notching four goals and four assists in his first 15 games. Those feats included his opener in a 1-1 draw with PSV Eindhoven, booking his place in Leverkusenâs record books as the clubâs youngest Champions League scorer. Compared by some to Hugo EkitikĂŠ, his impressive physicality ought to continue serving him well.
Senny Mayulu
19 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠17/05/2006 ⢠ 8/3
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 5 months, 5 days
Who can forget the look of joy and disbelief on Senny Mayuluâs face after capping Parisâ 5-0 triumph against Inter Milan in last seasonâs final? Thumping the ball inside the near post, the 19-year-old became the third-youngest scorer in a European Cup showpiece, a statement strike that he has built on this term. Praised for his intelligence and ability with both feet by Paris coach Luis Enrique, Mayulu can operate in multiple midfield roles or even lead the attack â as he did away to Barcelona on Matchday 2, sparking a 2-1 comeback success with a tidy finish for the equaliser.
Warren ZaĂŻre-Emery
19 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠08/03/2006 ⢠ 31/2
Age at UCL debut
16 years, 7 months, 17 days
Perhaps the most telling fact about Warren ZaĂŻre-Emeryâs precocity is that heâs already experiencing a comeback. Whereas most players his age are still emerging, the elegant midfielder has a career that can be measured in phases, the stunning momentum he enjoyed after his Paris debut at the age of 16 having stalled last season. No teenager in history has played more Champions League games than ZaĂŻre-Emeryâs 31, and this term he has taken advantage of injuries to reclaim a starting berth, his confidence evident as he showcases the assured technique and box-to-box prowess that originally marked him out as a serious talent.
Archie Gray
19 years |Â Tottenham Hotspur
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/03/2006 ⢠  3/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 6 months, 18 days
Having joined from boyhood club Leeds in summer 2024, Archie Gray went on to provide consistency and reliability for a Spurs side undergoing something of a turbulent campaign. He played every position in defence during his 46 games last season, also operating as a holding and central midfielder as he showcased his ludicrous versatility. In Gray, Spurs have a young jack of all trades who brings technical ability, adaptability and a maturity beyond his years. No wonder former Leeds United coach Marcelo Bielsa once put in a request for him to miss classes in order to train with the first team.
Josh Acheampong
19 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠05/05/2006 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 4 months, 25 days
For all the money Chelsea have spent in recent seasons on recruiting youngsters from across the globe, itâs perhaps ironic that one of their breakout stars should come from their very own academy. Josh Acheampong has been in or around the first team for the last two years, having debuted for the Blues back in May 2024, but itâs this season that he has truly taken a step forward in terms of playing time. Capable of playing either at right-back or in the heart of the defence, 19-year- old Acheampong is athletic, composed and versatile â not a bad combination.
Jorrel Hato
19 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠07/03/2006 ⢠ 2/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 7 months, 15 days
Fate had a trick up its sleeve when Jorrel Hato made his Champions League debut in October, the 19-year-old joining the elite against the club he left this summer â Ajax. The Dutch international made over 100 appearances for the Amsterdam side, including a first appearance at 16 and wearing the captainâs armband for a Europa League game aged just 17. Strong, quick and technically proficient, Hato has alternated at centre-back and left-back since his breakthrough, receiving praise too for an eagerness to join attacks. âHis all-round game is top,â says Chelsea team-mate Tosin Adarabioyo. âThe way Iâve seen him go forward in training is amazing.â
Lucas Bergvall
19 years |Â Tottenham Hotspur
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠02/02/2006 ⢠  4/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 7 months, 14 days
Any teenager pursued by Barcelona before their 18th birthday is obviously doing something right, but to be voted Spursâ player of the season by the official supportersâ club last term marked Lucas Bergvall out as special. That wonât have been news to the midfielderâs former youth coach Peter Kisfaludy, who says that Bergvall âhas the most talent of anybodyâ he ever worked with at Brommapojkarna, Swedenâs unofficial wonderkid production facility. Bergvall possesses that oh-so-enviable blend of silky dribbling, athleticism and elevated technique â as well as the confidence to put it all together. Even the mighty Barça may be ruing what they missed out on.
Claudio Echeverri
19 years |Â Bayer Leverkusen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠02/01/2006 ⢠  4/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 8 months, 16 days
Tipped for greatness in his native Argentina, Claudio Echeverri has had to be patient since his big move to Europe at the start of 2025. Having swapped River Plate for Manchester City in January, the dynamic playmaker eventually made his bow for Pep Guardiolaâs side in May â unable to prevent defeat by Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final but earning a special mention. âEvery time he was around that box, it was a dangerous situation,â raved his coach, now following his progress on loan at Leverkusen, where Echeverriâs tricky dribbling led to a last-gasp equaliser on his Champions League debut against Copenhagen.
Max Dowman
15 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠31/12/2009 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
15 years, 10 months, 4 days
Thereâs no other way to put it â Max Dowman is a freak of nature. At 15 years old, he has already become the youngest-ever Champions League player, and heâs shattering similar records pretty much every time he steps onto a pitch. The right-winger boasts all the fearless confidence youâd expect in a teen, while his close control and gift for dribbling have inspired one Arsenal youth coach to dub him âthe next KakĂĄâ. He very much puts the âkidâ in âwonderkidâ but never looks overawed, which is why Mikel Arteta has felt comfortable throwing Dowman in at the deep end.
Rio Ngumoha
17 years |Â Liverpool
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠29/08/2008 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 19 days
Spare a thought for Europeâs right-backs if Rio Ngumoha continues his trajectory. Snapped up from Chelsea in 2024, the pacy left-winger loves nothing more than running at defenders, his quick feet and audacious creativity often leaving them dizzy. The 17-year-oldâs fearlessness has earned him a fan in Liverpool coach Arne Slot, who sent the livewire on against AtlĂŠtico de Madrid in September to become the clubâs youngest-ever player in European competition. That came after Ngumohaâs 100th-minute Premier League winner away to Newcastle in August, the then 16 year-old also setting a new benchmark as the Redsâ youngest scorer.
Dastan Satpayev
17 years |Â Kairat Almaty
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/08/2008 ⢠ 5/1
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 1 month, 6 days
Kairatâs Kazakh prospect Dastan Satpayev has already agreed a deal to join Chelsea at the end of the season, which tells you plenty about how prodigious a talent he is. Likened to Kylian MbappĂŠ by Kazakh media outlets, Satpayev made history on Matchday 5 when he became the third-youngest player ever to score in the Champions League at 17 years and 106 days. He has been prolific in Kazakh domestic action this term, not just scoring goals but providing them, and his speed and agility are sure to make him a force to be reckoned with when he does eventually arrive in the Premier League.
Viktor DaĂ°ason
17 years |Â Copenhagen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠30/06/2008 ⢠ 3/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 3 months, 21 days
Still only 17, Icelandic forward Viktor DaĂ°ason has blitzed his way through the Copenhagen youth set-up since joining in 2024, and now finds himself fourth on the Champions Leagueâs youngest scorersâ list. After his debut effort against Borussia Dortmund in October, the towering striker netted again against Kairat Almaty to become the youngest player ever to score in multiple matches, snatching the record from Lamine Yamal. âItâs not the last we have seen of him, either in the short or long term,â vowed FCK coach Jacob Neestrup, who will be far from alone in tracking his progress.
Honest Ahanor
17 years |Â Atalanta
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠23/02/2008 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 6 months, 25 days
Atalanta made a sizeable investment when they snared Honest Ahanor from Genoa in the summer, coach Ivan JuriÄ admitting it was a âriskyâ move. After a period of adaptation, the risk is now paying off, with the 17-year-old finding his feet in La Deaâs three-man rearguard after starting out as a left-back. Ahanorâs grounding as a full-back has given him confidence to push forward and help build attacks, while his recovery pace and powerful physique make him a dominant figure in defence. âHe has physicality, intelligence and character,â says JuriÄ, who hasnât hesitated to field the versatile youngster in high- stakes Champions League games.
Lennart Karl
17 years |Â Bayern MĂźnchen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠22/02/2008 ⢠ 3/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 8 days
âMy first touch wasnât perfect, but then I was in the zone.â So said Lennart Karl about a goal that looked pretty much flawless to everyone else, the 17-year-old surging through a swarm of Club Brugge players in October before arrowing a left-footed shot into the top corner from outside the area. With that, the nimble playmaker became Bayernâs youngest scorer in the Champions League â inside the opening five minutes of his first start in the competition. No wonder the clubâs fans are excited about the future, Karlâs futsal-honed technique combining with superior intelligence and a knack for long-range stunners to make him an instant crowd favourite.
Ibrahim Mbaye
17 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠24/01/2008 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 24 days
The best person to ask for an opinion on Ibrahim Mbaye might be Jules KoundĂŠ. The Barcelona full-back was given a torrid time by Mbaye back in October, when the Paris forward was a bustling, high-energy threat, popping up on both flanks and eager to run at defenders during a 2-1 away victory for the European champions. Seen as the next academy gem waiting in the wings after Parisâ triumph last term, the 17-year- old has enjoyed increased playing time this season, earning the trust of coach Luis Enrique and that first Champions League start against Barça. Expect plenty more.
Dro FernĂĄndez
17 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/01/2008 ⢠ 1/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 9 months, 9 days
A hybrid winger/attacking midfielder with a unique name to set him apart from every other Pedro FernĂĄndez in the game, Dro looks to be yet another marvel from Barcelonaâs La Masia academy. Lithe and fearless, the 17-year-old is a capable ball carrier who loves an assist, even grabbing one on his Champions League debut against Olympiacos in October. Heâs also adept at arriving late in the box to provide a scoring option, one more reason why his former coaches Javi Roxo and Luis reckon âhis talent is infiniteâ, not to mention reminiscent of Barça great AndrĂŠs Iniesta.
Franco Mastantuono
18 years |Â Real Madrid
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠14/08/2007 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 1 month, 2 days
Widely considered a future pillar of Argentinian football, Franco Mastantuono has a frightening array of tools in his kit. The attacking midfielder has a mean left foot that can strike from distance both in open play and from set pieces, while heâs a fine dribbler with keen spatial awareness and a crisp first touch. Having set a new record as River Plateâs youngest scorer in 2024, Mastantuono was snapped up by Madrid this summer, and has since opened his goal account in La Liga and become the clubâs youngest starter in the Champions League â no small feat given Los Blancosâ European pedigree.
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Lamine Yamal
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠13/07/2007 ⢠ 27/7
Age at UCL debut
16 years, 2 months, 6 days
A once-in-a-generation phenomenon so ridiculously gifted that only one question remains: is Lamine Yamal merely the best young player in the world or the best player in the world, full stop? A European champion with Spain the day after his 17th birthday, the irrepressible winger has been turning games and thrilling spectators with playful ease, his sumptuous dribbling skills and pinpoint shooting inevitably prompting comparisons with Barcelona predecessor Lionel Messi. Although a groin injury has dulled his impact this season, the 18-year-old looks destined to hoover up trophies and individual awards for many years to come.
Marc Bernal
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/05/2007 ⢠ 2/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 4 months, 5 days
A tall, lanky midfielder who is cool under pressure, keeps things simple but has an elegant flair? Itâs no surprise that Barcelona fans quickly likened Marc Bernal to Sergio Busquets upon his emergence last season. The 18-year-old immediately looked astute at reading the game, before an unfortunate ACL tear just ten days on from his debut. After more than a year out, Bernal returned this September, grabbing an assist in his first game back against Valencia with a pinpoint through ball to Robert Lewandowski. Given the nature of the injury, Barcelona are being careful with his minutes, but the talent is undeniable.
EstĂŞvĂŁo
18 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠24/04/2007 ⢠ 5/3
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 4 months, 24 days
Electric is the first word that comes to mind when describing EstĂŞvĂŁo, who had Chelsea fans on their feet after his incredible dribble and finish into the roof of the net against Barcelona. His speed, balance and eye-catching dexterity earned him the nickname Messinho in reference to a certain Argentinian, and he has already made a splash with five goals in three Champions League outings. âFor this club in the next five to ten years, he will be a top, top, top player,â says coach Enzo Maresca. A treble âtopâ from the gaffer? That has to count for something.
Ethan Nwaneri
18 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠21/03/2007 ⢠ 9/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 7 months, 16 days
For Ethan Nwaneri to be 18 years old and still have made his debut over three years ago is something else, quite frankly. Mikel Arteta admitted the Arsenal youngsterâs talent is ârare to seeâ, which goes some way to explaining why he has become more of a regular in the last 12 months. With seven Champions League appearances and two goals last season, including a screamer against Girona, he has already showed the rest of Europe what he can do, whether thatâs filling in for Martin Ădegaard through the middle or deputising out wide for Bukayo Saka to brilliant effect.
Geovany Quenda
18 years |Â Sporting CP
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠30/04/2007 ⢠ 5/2
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 4 months, 18 days
âThis kid is special,â said Thierry Henry after marvelling at Geovany Quendaâs feints, dodges and composed finish against Kairat Almaty in September. âHe has no fear. You would expect that from a youngster, but thereâs something special about him.â A graduate of Sportingâs Academia Cristiano Ronaldo, Quenda is a true footballing specimen. He possesses raw pace, agility and acceleration to go with his penchant for driving directly at defenders â and usually getting past them. Those qualities convinced Chelsea to open their cheque-book in March, and the 18-year-old winger will complete his move from Lisbon to London in summer 2026.
Pau CubarsĂ
18 years |Â Barcelona
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠22/01/2007 ⢠ 21/0
Age at UCL debut
17 years, 1 month, 19 days
Dubbed âan eruption of talentâ by former Barcelona coach Xavi HernĂĄndez, Pau CubarsĂ made a blistering impression on his Champions League bow in March 2024. The youngest player ever to debut in the knockout stage, the then 17-year-old put in a complete performance as Barça defeated Napoli 3-1 to reach the quarter-finals. Not just ice cool in his silencing of Victor Osimhen, the centre-back showed off his uncanny passing ability, marking him out as the rightful heir to Gerard PiquĂŠ. âPau was never nervous,â added Xavi. âHe creates time for himself, he dictates the tempo â itâs simply spectacular watching him play.â
Christos Mouzakitis
18 years |Â Olympiacos
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠5/12/2006 ⢠ 5/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 8 months, 23 days
Arguably the crown jewel of Olympiacosâ 2023/24 UEFA Youth League-winning side, Christos Mouzakitis is a left-footed midfield instigator who seemingly has it all. With multiple Greece caps already to his name, the 18-year- old has piqued the interest of several European giants thanks to his range of passing and ability to break through defensive lines. âMy role model is Luka ModriÄ,â Mouzakitis revealed back in 2023. âIâve liked him since I was little.â Low centre of gravity, metronomic passing and game intelligence â itâs easy to see just how much of an influence the Croatian Ballon dâOr winner has been.
Miles Lewis-Skelly
19 years |Â Arsenal
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/09/2006 ⢠ 14/0
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 5 days
While many had foretold the rise of Nwaneri at Arsenalâs Hale End academy, Miles Lewis-Skellyâs burst onto the scene came as more of a surprise last term. Handed his debut in a fiery 2-2 draw with Manchester City, Lewis-Skelly quickly emerged as one of the Premier Leagueâs best left-backs in 2024/25, form he carried into the Champions League. Against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, he was implacable in holding down the left flank, both home and away, showing that he is not just a tremendous talent but a young man with a head for the big occasions.
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Christian Kofane
19 years |Â Bayer Leverkusen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠26/07/2006 ⢠ 5/1
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 1 month, 23 days
Leverkusenâs sporting director Simon Rolfes described Christian Kofane as an âextremely powerful and quick strikerâ shortly after bringing the Cameroonian from the Spanish second division to the Bundesliga in July. A surprise move perhaps, but one that is bearing fruit, with the 19-year-old notching four goals and four assists in his first 15 games. Those feats included his opener in a 1-1 draw with PSV Eindhoven, booking his place in Leverkusenâs record books as the clubâs youngest Champions League scorer. Compared by some to Hugo EkitikĂŠ, his impressive physicality ought to continue serving him well.
Senny Mayulu
19 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠17/05/2006 ⢠ 8/3
Age at UCL debut
18 years, 5 months, 5 days
Who can forget the look of joy and disbelief on Senny Mayuluâs face after capping Parisâ 5-0 triumph against Inter Milan in last seasonâs final? Thumping the ball inside the near post, the 19-year-old became the third-youngest scorer in a European Cup showpiece, a statement strike that he has built on this term. Praised for his intelligence and ability with both feet by Paris coach Luis Enrique, Mayulu can operate in multiple midfield roles or even lead the attack â as he did away to Barcelona on Matchday 2, sparking a 2-1 comeback success with a tidy finish for the equaliser.
Warren ZaĂŻre-Emery
19 years |Â Paris Saint-Germain
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠08/03/2006 ⢠ 31/2
Age at UCL debut
16 years, 7 months, 17 days
Perhaps the most telling fact about Warren ZaĂŻre-Emeryâs precocity is that heâs already experiencing a comeback. Whereas most players his age are still emerging, the elegant midfielder has a career that can be measured in phases, the stunning momentum he enjoyed after his Paris debut at the age of 16 having stalled last season. No teenager in history has played more Champions League games than ZaĂŻre-Emeryâs 31, and this term he has taken advantage of injuries to reclaim a starting berth, his confidence evident as he showcases the assured technique and box-to-box prowess that originally marked him out as a serious talent.
Archie Gray
19 years |Â Tottenham Hotspur
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠12/03/2006 ⢠  3/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 6 months, 18 days
Having joined from boyhood club Leeds in summer 2024, Archie Gray went on to provide consistency and reliability for a Spurs side undergoing something of a turbulent campaign. He played every position in defence during his 46 games last season, also operating as a holding and central midfielder as he showcased his ludicrous versatility. In Gray, Spurs have a young jack of all trades who brings technical ability, adaptability and a maturity beyond his years. No wonder former Leeds United coach Marcelo Bielsa once put in a request for him to miss classes in order to train with the first team.
Josh Acheampong
19 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠05/05/2006 ⢠ 3/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 4 months, 25 days
For all the money Chelsea have spent in recent seasons on recruiting youngsters from across the globe, itâs perhaps ironic that one of their breakout stars should come from their very own academy. Josh Acheampong has been in or around the first team for the last two years, having debuted for the Blues back in May 2024, but itâs this season that he has truly taken a step forward in terms of playing time. Capable of playing either at right-back or in the heart of the defence, 19-year- old Acheampong is athletic, composed and versatile â not a bad combination.
Jorrel Hato
19 years |Â Chelsea
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠07/03/2006 ⢠ 2/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 7 months, 15 days
Fate had a trick up its sleeve when Jorrel Hato made his Champions League debut in October, the 19-year-old joining the elite against the club he left this summer â Ajax. The Dutch international made over 100 appearances for the Amsterdam side, including a first appearance at 16 and wearing the captainâs armband for a Europa League game aged just 17. Strong, quick and technically proficient, Hato has alternated at centre-back and left-back since his breakthrough, receiving praise too for an eagerness to join attacks. âHis all-round game is top,â says Chelsea team-mate Tosin Adarabioyo. âThe way Iâve seen him go forward in training is amazing.â
Lucas Bergvall
19 years |Â Tottenham Hotspur
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠02/02/2006 ⢠  4/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 7 months, 14 days
Any teenager pursued by Barcelona before their 18th birthday is obviously doing something right, but to be voted Spursâ player of the season by the official supportersâ club last term marked Lucas Bergvall out as special. That wonât have been news to the midfielderâs former youth coach Peter Kisfaludy, who says that Bergvall âhas the most talent of anybodyâ he ever worked with at Brommapojkarna, Swedenâs unofficial wonderkid production facility. Bergvall possesses that oh-so-enviable blend of silky dribbling, athleticism and elevated technique â as well as the confidence to put it all together. Even the mighty Barça may be ruing what they missed out on.
Claudio Echeverri
19 years |Â Bayer Leverkusen
⢠Birth date  ⢠UCL apps/goals
⢠02/01/2006 ⢠  4/0
Age at UCL debut
19 years, 8 months, 16 days
Tipped for greatness in his native Argentina, Claudio Echeverri has had to be patient since his big move to Europe at the start of 2025. Having swapped River Plate for Manchester City in January, the dynamic playmaker eventually made his bow for Pep Guardiolaâs side in May â unable to prevent defeat by Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final but earning a special mention. âEvery time he was around that box, it was a dangerous situation,â raved his coach, now following his progress on loan at Leverkusen, where Echeverriâs tricky dribbling led to a last-gasp equaliser on his Champions League debut against Copenhagen.
