XtraTime Web Desk: The all awaited UEFA Champions League nights are ready to entertain the football fans across the globe as the best clubs in Europe are gearing up for the most esteemed club competition in World Football. Hence, www.xtratime.in picks out five new youngsters who can make it big in this season.
ERLING HAALAND – SALZBURG
One of Europe’s most in-form strikers, Haaland hit eight league goals in six games for Austrian champions Salzburg before the international break. The Leeds-born 19-year-old, son of former Manchester City midfielder Alf-Inge Haaland, shot to fame when he scored nine goals in Norway’s 12-0 win over Honduras at the Under-20 World Cup earlier this year.
DANI OLMO – DINAMO ZAGREB
Having led Spain to glory at the European Under-21 Championship this year, Olmo was one of Europe’s most in-demand players. Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, Manchester United and Tottenham were all linked with the 21-year-old, who was retained by Dinamo instead.
He offers a genuine threat in the final third, having scored eight league goals last term, and Dinamo has a real chance of qualifying from Group C behind likely winner Manchester City.
ALEJANDRO GOMEZ – ATALANTA
In the same group, along with Shakhtar Donetsk, is Champions League newcomer Atalanta, which thrilled in Serie A last term. Finally getting a chance to shine in the Champions League, Gomez may not get another opportunity to adorn this competition.
One of the most consistent performers in Italy’s top flight, the 31-year-old could help Atalanta become the tournament’s surprise package.
MASON MOUNT – CHELSEA
A transfer ban has forced Europa League winners Chelsea to reassess its squad with new England international Mason Mount among those making the most of their chance under Blues head coach Frank Lampard.
Three Premier League goals have helped the 20-year-old, who played under Lampard at Championship side Derby County on loan last season, settle in quickly. The Champions League is his next test.
LAUTARO MARTINEZ – INTER
Inter and Dortmund look likely to be scrapping for second spot in Group F, so Antonio Conte will want a big impact from Lautaro Martinez.
The Argentina attacker should get more chances to impress after the departure of compatriot Mauro Icardi to PSG on loan and he showed he is in fine form by hitting a hat-trick in a friendly defeat of Mexico during the international break.