OFFICIAL: Kopa Trophy Nominees for Best Young Talent of the Year Revealed at 2025 Ballon d’Or
The race to crown football’s brightest young star is officially on, as the nominees for the 2025 Kopa Trophy—awarded to the best player in the world under the age of 21—have been announced ahead of this year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Named after legendary French footballer Raymond Kopa, the Kopa Trophy has quickly become one of the most prestigious individual awards for emerging talent since its inception in 2018. Previous winners include Kylian Mbappé, Matthijs de Ligt, Pedri, Gavi, and Jude Bellingham, all of whom have gone on to become key players for club and country.
This year’s shortlist features an exciting mix of electric wingers, composed midfielders, and goal-scoring forwards who’ve dazzled at both domestic and international level. The 10-man nominee list is packed with potential future Ballon d’Or winners—some already making waves at the highest level, others still blossoming into superstardom.
Let’s take a closer look at the official 2025 Kopa Trophy nominees:
⭐ 1. Lamine Yamal (Spain / FC Barcelona)
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal continues to take the football world by storm. The Spanish winger broke through Barcelona’s senior team with flair and confidence, drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi for his fearless dribbling and vision. He played a pivotal role in Spain’s run to the Euro 2024 final, becoming the youngest scorer in the tournament’s history. Yamal’s blend of youth and maturity makes him one of the frontrunners for this year’s trophy.
⭐ 2. Arda Güler (Turkey / Real Madrid)
Despite battling injuries early in the season, Arda Güler has flourished in Real Madrid’s rotation. The Turkish sensation impressed at Euro 2024 with his playmaking flair and long-range goals. His technical finesse, composure on the ball, and attacking intelligence have solidified his status as one of Europe’s most exciting midfielders under 21.
⭐ 3. Warren Zaïre-Emery (France / PSG)
The engine of PSG’s midfield and a cornerstone of France’s youth system, Zaïre-Emery had an outstanding season both in Ligue 1 and the Champions League. Known for his maturity, tactical intelligence, and composure, the 18-year-old has become a regular starter in a star-studded PSG squad. He’s already been compared to the likes of Patrick Vieira and Claude Makélélé.
⭐ 4. Alejandro Garnacho (Argentina / Manchester United)
Garnacho had a breakthrough year for Manchester United, scoring crucial goals and assisting regularly in the Premier League and FA Cup. His stunning overhead kick against Everton remains one of the goals of the season. The Argentine winger’s direct style, creativity, and flair have made him a fan favorite at Old Trafford.
⭐ 5. Joao Neves (Portugal / Benfica)
A midfield metronome for Benfica, Joao Neves has drawn interest from top Premier League clubs with his consistent performances. The 19-year-old combines incredible work rate with slick passing and defensive awareness. He also featured in Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad, showing maturity beyond his years.
⭐ 6. Endrick (Brazil / Palmeiras / Real Madrid)
Still playing in Brazil but already signed to Real Madrid, Endrick continues to draw headlines for his explosive pace, strength, and finishing ability. Set to join Madrid officially in mid-2025, the teenage forward starred in Brazil’s Copa America campaign, scoring twice and showcasing why he’s viewed as the next big thing from South America.
⭐ 7. Kobbie Mainoo (England / Manchester United)
Mainoo’s meteoric rise in the Manchester United midfield has been a revelation. Calm under pressure, technically sound, and tactically astute, the 19-year-old was a standout performer in England’s deep Euro 2024 run. His performances at club and international level have drawn praise from legends and pundits alike.
⭐ 8. Mathys Tel (France / Bayern Munich)
Despite limited starts, Tel has made the most of his opportunities at Bayern Munich. The French striker has been a super-sub, delivering crucial goals and demonstrating raw physical talent, excellent movement, and clinical finishing. He’s a project player with sky-high potential.
⭐ 9. Arthur Vermeeren (Belgium / Atlético Madrid)
After transferring to Atlético Madrid, Vermeeren seamlessly adapted to La Liga’s intensity. A ball-winning midfielder with an excellent range of passing and leadership qualities, he’s become a key figure for both club and Belgium’s U-21 team. Diego Simeone’s trust in the teenager speaks volumes.
⭐ 10. Pau Cubarsí (Spain / FC Barcelona)
At just 17, Pau Cubarsí has been a revelation in central defense for Barcelona. Calm under pressure, intelligent in his positioning, and technically refined, Cubarsí broke into Xavi’s XI and never looked back. He also made his Spain debut in 2024, playing with the poise of a veteran.
🔥 Who Deserves Your Vote?
Fans, players, and Ballon d’Or jurors now face a difficult choice. Should the award go to a consistent performer like Zaïre-Emery, a breakout tournament star like Yamal, or a pure talent like Endrick? Each nominee has carved a unique narrative in the football world this year.
Twitter, Instagram, and fan forums have exploded with debates, with many fans backing their countrymen or favorite club prospects. The Kopa Trophy has always sparked heated discussion, especially when comparing players across positions and leagues.
🏆 Previous Winners of the Kopa Trophy:
- 2018: Kylian Mbappé (France)
- 2019: Matthijs de Ligt (Netherlands)
- 2021: Pedri (Spain)
- 2022: Gavi (Spain)
- 2023: Jude Bellingham (England)
- 2024: Jamal Musiala (Germany)
With Jamal Musiala having graduated from the U-21 category, a new name will etch history this year.
📅 When Will the Winner Be Announced?
The Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place in Paris in October 2025, where the Kopa Trophy winner will be crowned alongside the Men’s Ballon d’Or, Women’s Ballon d’Or, Yashin Trophy (Best Goalkeeper), and Gerd Müller Trophy (Top Scorer).
Whether it’s a teenage sensation or a consistent performer, the 2025 Kopa Trophy race is tighter than ever. One thing’s for certain: football’s future is in very good hands.
So, who’d you vote for? 🗳️
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