As the two dominant forces of soccer in Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo grow closer and closer to retirement, who will take on the task of filling their shoes? These are the top five young talent prospects aged 21 and under in my opinion.

5.) João Félix (Forward), Atlético Madrid – Age 20

Félix burst on the the stage at the highest level, making a name for himself by scoring three goals in the Europa League in April. With these goals, Félix was the youngest player ever to score a hat trick in the competition at the age of 19 years and 152 days. In the summer of 2019 he made history again, costing Atlético Madrid $113 million – the fifth most expensive transfer in history.

4.) Erling Håland (Forward), Borussia Dortmund – Age 19

This Norwegian at the young age of 19 has set Europe on fire, starting the season in Austria and recently transferring to Borussia Dortmund. Since his move to Germany, he has already scored seven goals in three games. His technique, pace, and power are often too much for defenders to handle.

3.) Trent Alexander-Arnold (Right Back), Liverpool – Age 21

A homegrown talent, Trent Alexander-Arnold rose through the ranks at the Liverpool youth academy and has solidified his spot in the Liverpool defense. He has the second most assists in the Premier League this season (10), and is already a Champions League Champion. With a probable Premier league title in his future, there is no telling how high Alexander-Arnold can go.

2.) Jadon Sancho (Winger), Borussia Dortmund – age 19

Jadon Sancho has been nothing short of sensational in Germany, both last year and this year. He currently has the most assists, and third most goals in the league with 12 goals and 13 assists. Unsurprisingly, Sancho’s performances have seen him break into the England national team squad, and a big transfer move in the future is most likely destined.

1.) Kylian Mbappé (Forward), PSG  – Age 21

No surprises here to see that Kylian Mbappé is at the number one spot. Already having won the World Cup, two Ligue 1 titles, Ligue 1 top scorer, 2018 young player of the year all at the young age of 21, the sky is the limit with this player. His explosive speed and skills make him a nightmare to defend against, and he is predicted to become one of the best ever to play the game.