Shortlist
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The 2025 U20 World Cup kicks off in Chile this weekend, featuring matches like Japan vs. Egypt and Ukraine vs. South Korea. Despite falling in the midst of the European domestic season, the tournament is set to highlight some of the most promising young talents globally. Historical figures such as Erling Haaland, Sergio Aguero, and Lionel Messi began their journeys in competitions like this. So, which players should fans keep an eye on over the next three weeks? Based on Transfermarkt’s market valuations, here is a list of the top 10 talents to watch for football enthusiasts.
The Top 10 Most Valuable Players at the U20 World Cup
10. Luighi – Brazil
Starting our list is Luighi, a striker from Palmeiras who has the potential to emerge as a standout goal scorer in this tournament. At just 19 years old, he notched 21 goals and assists in 32 appearances for Palmeiras’ U20 team, earning a spot on the senior squad. Since his promotion, he has scored twice and provided one assist in 22 mostly substitute appearances. In five matches for Brazil’s U17 side, he has also found the net twice, looking to build on that performance here.
9. Elías Montiel – Mexico
At only 19, Elías Montiel has quickly established himself as a pivotal figure in the Mexico team due to his extensive experience. As a defensive midfielder, he has logged over 5000 minutes in the Mexican top flight with Pachuca and was linked to clubs like Ajax and Braga this summer. European scouts will certainly be keeping an eye on him during the tournament.
8. Deivid Washington – Brazil
Number 8 on our list is Deivid Washington, a name familiar to some Premier League fans. Transferred from Santos to Chelsea in 2023 for €16m, he showed great promise in the club’s U21 squad with 15 goal contributions in 22 matches before being loaned back to Santos. This tournament presents an ideal opportunity for him to shine on a larger stage.
7. Obed Vargas – Mexico
Originally from Alaska but choosing to represent Mexico, Obed Vargas is one of the exciting prospects emerging from MLS. The 20-year-old central midfielder has seen his market value soar to €8m after impressing with the Seattle Sounders. Expect him to be a standout player at this year’s tournament.
6. Jon Martín – Spain
A prominent figure in Transfermarkt’s Talent Calendar for 2023, Jon Martín is among Spain’s most promising defensive talents. After progressing through Real Sociedad’s youth ranks, he has become a starter in LaLiga this season, making him one of the top defenders to watch at the U20 World Cup.
5. Álvaro Montoro – Argentina
Argentina has a rich history of success at youth tournaments, and Álvaro Montoro, an attacking midfielder, could be a key player to watch. After two strong seasons with Vélez Sarsfield, he was transferred to Brazilian powerhouse Botafogo for €7.9m this summer. If he performs well, that fee may soon be considered a bargain.
4. Julio Soler – Argentina
Renowned amongst European fans, Julio Soler has established himself as a top talent. He moved from Lanús to Bournemouth for €8m in January, and has already made five appearances for the senior national team. As one of Argentina’s key players, he will play a significant role in their quest for victory.
3. Gianluca Prestianni – Argentina
Another Argentine talent poised to make an impact is Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni. Having joined the Portuguese club for €9m last January, he has already contributed four goals and assists in 24 appearances, along with a strong record of three goals and two assists in eight matches for Argentina’s U20 squad.
2. Maher Carrizo – Argentina
A product of Vélez Sarsfield, Maher Carrizo has been in excellent form for his current club, scoring 10 goals and providing one assist in 31 matches during 2025. Recently, his market value surged to €4m, making him the second most valuable player in this competition and one of its brightest stars.
1. Pedro – Brazil
Claiming the top spot is Brazilian winger Pedro, who transferred to Zenit St. Petersburg for €9m after making a name for himself at Corinthians as a prolific forward. At just 19, he has recorded eight goals and nine assists in 66 matches, primarily as a substitute. Most impressively, he has scored four goals and provided eight assists in 18 games for Brazil’s U20 side, and fans will be eager to see him add to those numbers during the tournament.
