XtraTime Web Desk: The World Cup fever is over and some of the best young talents at the biggest clubs are grasping their opportunities and making a name for themselves in front of big audiences. Here we look at the five best performers to check out for in the new season.
Christopher Nkunku (Paris Saint-Germain / 20 / France): With Africa’s only Ballon d’Or winner as his father, Timothy Weah was always going to have a high level of expectation on his head and so far he appears to be up to the challenge of following in George’s footsteps.
He has lightning pace and an ability to drive into space but can also play with his back to goal and link up attacks for his team.
Callum Hudson-Odoi (Chelsea / 17 / England): Maurizio Sarri has already used him twice this summer and the Italian confirmed he will remain at the London club for the course of the coming season having already made his Premier League debut last term under Antonio Conte.
Hudson-Odoi is a skilful playmaker with great technique and an unstoppable dribbling ability. At the moment, it appears as though Sarri’s ideal place for him is on the left wing.
Alfa Semedo (Benfica / 20 / Guinea-Bissau): Yet another to emerge from Benfica’s production line, Semedo was on loan last season and impressed so much that the club splashed out 2 million euros to bring him back. He has not started this summer, but featured three times and this could be a big season for him.
Tim Weah (PSG / 18 / United States): With Africa’s only Ballon d’Or winner as his father, Timothy Weah was always going to have a high level of expectation on his head and so far he appears to be up to the challenge of following in George’s footsteps.
He has lightning pace and an ability to drive into space but can also play with his back to goal and link up attacks for his team.
Riqui Puig (Barcelona / 18 / Spain): Given minutes by Ernesto Valverde this summer, Puig is looking to follow in the footsteps of Xavi and there will be comparisons for the La Masia product. He is a typical Barcelona-type player and will likely feature at points in the season to come.