The Top Young Talent Outside of the Big Five Leagues: Football’s New Wonderkids

Impressing in one of Europe’s biggest leagues is a strong way to make a name for yourself as a promising youngster – but there are plenty of exciting players coming through in the lesser- promoted leagues too.

CIES Football Observatory, a research group, have analysed the data to compile a list of the highest-ranked players born in 2006 or later who play outside Europe’s established top five leagues (Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Ligue 1 and Serie A).

Its modus operandi, external Data was taken for aerial play, recovery, distribution, and take-ons – meaning dribbling the ball at least eight metres towards the opponent’s goal – creating and finishing chances.

Here are the top 10 players judged by those metrics – prospects who could become more recognisable names in 2026.

The Netherlands Under-21 international, aged 19, has been a regular for Dutch side Feyenoord for the past two seasons. With impressive technical and physical ability,

He is seen as an exciting modern wing-back in the Jeremy Frimpong and Jurien Timber mould.

Kwenda is only 18 years old, but he has gone on to appear in 50 league matches for Sporting, and his potential has attracted the attention of Chelsea, who have agreed to sign him next summer.

Comfortable in the wing-back or winger role, the teenager stands out for his pace and dribbling ability.

Yirenki is just 19 years old, but Ghana has already beaten FC Nordsjælland nine times, which indicates his potential.

The midfielder has made 17 appearances in the Danish top flight so far this season. He is known for his versatility, having played at right-back for his national team.

The 18-year-old Portuguese midfielder has impressed over the past year. He scored and got an assist on his debut for Porto and at last summer’s Club World Cup.

He became the youngest European goalscorer in the history of the tournament when he netted against Al-Ahly.

Dutch midfielder Smit, 19, has reportedly attracted interest from Chelsea.

After winning player of the tournament at the European Under-19 Championship in Romania in June, Smit, 19, has reportedly drawn interest from Chelsea, Manchester United, and Real Madrid.

Also known as Pedrinho or Pedro, the 19-year-old forward possesses exciting close-control skills and extraordinary confidence.

which has led many observers to suggest that he could be the next Brazilian superstar.

Another exciting Brazilian teenager, the 19-year-old forward, also known as Ryan, recently helped his country win the South American Under-20 Championship.

He was also named the best newcomer of the 2025 Campeonato Brasileiro and finished as top scorer at the 2025 Copa do Brasil with five goals.

Capable of playing at centre-back or left-back, 18-year-old Spanish defender Salinas joined the first team of Racing Sanchez in December 2024. He has made 13 appearances in La Liga so far this season.

Gaidou may only be 18 years old, but he is already a commanding presence at centre-back, as he stands at 6 feet 5 inches tall.

The French-born teenager came through the youth system at Paris Saint-Germain before joining RB Salzburg in September 2024. He has played regularly in both the Austrian top flight and the Europa League this season.

The 18-year-old Argentinian midfielder is another player who is generating a lot of excitement in South America. Montoro is also able to work well in tight spaces and has excellent passing skills.