As the Premier League returns this Friday with Liverpool hosting Bournemouth in the opening fixture, we take a look at 10 rising stars to keep an eye on in 2025-26.
While the English top flight is best known for its array of global superstars, it also provides a platform for young talent to develop — whether at elite clubs or those lower down the table. Here’s our pick of 10 wonderkids, aged 21 or under, who could make an impact this season:
Nico O'Reilly
Manchester City's Nico O'Reilly on June 18, 2025
Expected to feature more at the Club World Cup, the Manchester City youngster only made two appearances in five matches. O’Reilly still hopes to seize his chance this term after breaking through late last season, scoring twice in seven games from April 2025 while being deployed as a left-back by Pep Guardiola. For now, he is the understudy to new signing Rayan Aït-Nouri.
Tottenham Hotspur's Mathys Tel pictured on February 6, 2025
On loan from Bayern Munich from February 2025, the French forward did enough to convince Tottenham to spend €35m (£31m) on him this summer, despite only registering two goals and two assists in 20 appearances last season. With Son Heung-min departing for Los Angeles FC in MLS, Tel is tipped to be a key attacking figure alongside Dominic Solanke.
Arsenal's Max Dowman pictured on February 28, 2025
Arsenal’s 15-year-old attacking midfielder enjoyed a standout season at youth level in 2024-25, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists in 30 appearances. Mikel Arteta may be tempted to hand him senior minutes, particularly if injuries once again hit the Gunners’ attacking ranks. Dowman has already caught the eye in pre-season.
Olympiacos' Charalampos Kostoulas pictured on November 24, 2024
Brighton paid a sizeable €35m (£31m) to sign the 18-year-old Greek talent from Olympiacos, despite his Transfermarkt valuation of €12m (£10.6m). With six senior goals last season, the forward or attacking midfielder will aim to make an impact in the Premier League.
Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly pictured on February 2, 2025
The 18-year-old is already valued at €40m (£35.3m) and is looking to build on a solid debut campaign with Arsenal — 42 appearances, one goal and three assists. In June, the versatile left-back signed a contract extension keeping him at the Emirates until 2030, underlining the club’s belief in his potential.
Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri pictured on February 15, 2025
Like Lewis-Skelly, the 18-year-old winger is among Arsenal’s brightest prospects. Nwaneri managed nine goals and two assists in 37 games last season, mostly in 2025, and will look to kick on despite increased competition for places following Noni Madueke’s arrival.
Tottenham Hotspur's Lucas Bergvall after the pre-season match against Hearts on July 17, 2024
Signed for €20m (£17.6m) in 2024, the Swedish midfielder played 45 times for Spurs last season, mainly in the second half of the campaign. Now valued at €38m (£33.5m), according to Transfermarkt, Bergvall will be aiming to cement a starting spot under Thomas Frank.
Rio Ngumoha of Liverpool celebrating at Anfield on August 4, 2025
With Luis Diaz leaving Liverpool, the young left winger could get more opportunities under Arne Slot this season. Ngumoha played just 73 minutes in 2024-25 but offers versatility, also being able to operate on the right. The former Chelsea youth product will look to impress when called upon.
Tottenham Hotspur's Archie Gray pictured on September 26, 2024
The £35m (€41.25m) signing from Leeds handled the pressure well in his first season at Spurs, making 46 appearances. The 19-year-old’s versatility is a major asset, as he can play defensive midfield, right-back or centre-back. Where Thomas Frank deploys him will be worth watching.
Chido Obi-Martin
Manchester United's Chido Obi-Martin pictured in March 2025
Could Manchester United’s revival involve a 17-year-old striker? With Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee underperforming last season and potentially leaving, Obi-Martin might get some senior opportunities. The Danish forward, who came through Arsenal’s youth system, will hope to make his mark if given the chance.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato..
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