Seven Young Players to Follow in 2026: Emerging Talent Through a Data-Driven Lens

Identifying players to monitor in an upcoming year requires balancing statistical output, role-specific behaviours, and developmental trajectories. The following seven profiles highlight young players whose performances indicate clear upward trends. While metrics vary across leagues and data providers, the emphasis here is on repeatable actions: progression, chance creation, defensive impact, efficiency and adaptability.

Momodou Sonko at K.A.A. Gent

1. Momodou Sonko (20, K.A.A. Gent) – Winger / Forward

Sonko’s underlying numbers are exceptional for a player still largely outside major-league attention. In the Allsvenskan, he produced 0.55 non-penalty xG+xA per 90, driven by dynamic carries and aggressive inside-cut patterns. His 7.9 progressive carries and 2.7 successful take-ons per 90 are strong predictors of future output. What stands out is that his actions rarely stall possessions—his carry-to-shot contribution is unusually high for his age. Young Boys provides the perfect stepping stone to larger leagues.

2. Igor Paixão (25, Olympique Marseille) – Winger

A quiet but statistically intriguing wide player. Paixão consistently delivers 0.30–0.40 xG+xA, but his deeper metrics reveal more: 4.2 progressive passes received, 6.5 touches in the box, and elite pressing repeatability as a wide ball-winner. He profiles as a high-tempo winger who thrives in transitional systems. Clubs tracking undervalued creators should keep him flagged for 2026.

3. Cristian Medina (23, Estudiantes de la Plata) – Central Midfielder

Medina offers a rare mix of volume, intensity, and structure. In 2024–25, he posted 10+ defensive actions per 90, progression involvement near 6 per 90, and high retention under pressure. Unlike many South American interiors, he does not rely on chaotic dribbling; instead, he manipulates rhythm and supports circulation efficiently. His passing network density indicates strong relational awareness. Medina is primed for a European move, with metrics suggesting he will translate well to high-tempo leagues.

4. Malick Fofana (20, Olympique Lyon) – Winger

Still underrated despite a recent transfer. Fofana generates 11+ progressive carries per 90 and excels at dynamic width, stretching blocks before accelerating inside. His expected threat contribution (xT) is consistently in the upper tiers for his role. Fofana’s take-ons result in high-value progressions, not isolated flair. At Lyon, a team in rebuilding phase, he may gain the volume needed for a breakout.

5. Javi Serrano (22, Atlético de Madrid B) – Midfielder

A midfielder with a defensive orientation and above-average spatial discipline. Serrano produces 7–9 recoveries per 90, strong duel efficiency, and surprisingly mature distribution: 0.24 expected build-up value per match. His Salzburg-style environment at Sturm Graz provides an ideal laboratory for high-energy pressing profiles. If he improves forward ball progression, he becomes a serious candidate for higher-level leagues.

6. Yuito Suzuki (24, SC Friburg) – Hybrid Forward / Attacking Midfielder

One of the most tactically flexible young attackers in Europe’s mid-tier leagues. Suzuki contributes 0.45–0.55 xG+xA per 90 with intelligent movements across the half-spaces, strong progressive runs, and above-average expected threat per carry. His scanning behaviour and off-ball timing are strong predictors of future adaptation to more complex systems. Brøndby’s structure amplifies his associative play and will make him visible in 2026.

Why these six matter

None of these players dominate global headlines, but their underlying data signals repeatable behaviours, not isolated overperformance:

• High progressive involvement

• Clear role identity

• Above-average efficiency under pressure

• Tactical flexibility

• Stabilised output across different match contexts

These are precisely the traits analysts monitor before markets respond. 2026 could be the year several of them move into top-five leagues—or become undervalued opportunities for clubs searching beyond the obvious profiles.