With the U-21 Euros already underway, here are three rising stars that you should be watching closely.
Manu Koné - France U21's - Borussia Mönchengladbach
Whilst Koné is a versatile player, he has spent the past year playing as a defensive midfielder in Daniel Farke's Mönchengladbach side. Playing in a 3-back system has not only allowed Koné to flex his defensive capabilities, but he has also received praise for his ability to move the ball upfield. The Frenchman completed the most take-ons in Europe's top five leagues (CM and DM only) with 59. That's 4 more than Jude Bellingham who was also playing in the Bundesliga. This may explain why Liverpool are in pursuit of the 22 year old, after Bellingham rejected them for Real Madrid. Koné will be playing alongside other young midfield stars such as Khéphren Thuram and Enzo Le Fee; the Euros will be a chance for the youngster to prove his excellence by outperforming his teammates. With France currently second favourites to lift the trophy, Koné may be able to secure his big move this summer with an impressive Euros campaign.
Wilfried Gnonto - Italy U21's - Leeds United
After completing his transfer from FC Zürich to the Yorkshire side, Gnonto has hit the ground running with 6 goals and 4 assists for Leeds despite only playing around 1600 minutes. However, after manager problems and the worst defence in the league (by GC) Leeds United were relegated from the Premier League. Gnonto will be looking to impress potential suitors this summer by shining for his national side. Another full season in the Premier League could allow him to unlock his full potential: the winger didn't start a Premier League game until November. Brighton, Crystal Palace and West Ham are all reportedly "keeping tabs" on the player, whilst Everton are the only English club to have made "concrete advances". With Leeds having a £16 million relegation clause on the Italian, Gnonto could attract some big clubs this summer. Juventus and Inter Milan are reportedly interested in bringing Wilfried back to his home country, and his original academy in the case of Inter. The 19-year old has already played 11 games for his country (senior level): he has 2 goals and an assist in this season's UEFA Nations League. Gnonto has been playing as a centre-forward at this year's U21 Euros, and has already bagged a goal. This central position could allow him to get an even higher output, and catch the eyes of Europe's top clubs. He should be disappointed if he is playing in the Championship next season, and so will definitely be one to watch this at the U21 Euros.
Jacob Ramsey - England U21's - Aston Villa
Despite playing in England's top flight for the past 3 season's, this season has definitely been Jacob Ramsey's breakthrough. The 22-year old picked up 6 goals, 7 assists, and created 42 chances. That's more than highly rated Kaoru Mitoma! Ramsey helped Aston Villa to an impressive 7th place finish to secure European football for next season, and was even performing well under Gerrard despite his team performing woefully. Whilst the midfielder likely won't leave Villa this summer (after rising through their academy), he will be keen to impress at the U21 Euros and potentially earn a spot in the 2024 Euro squad. Jacob captained the side in tonight's win against Germany, and also got himself a great assist with a defence-splitting pass. Ramsey has also scored earlier in the group stages, and is really looking like a top level player. The Villa playmaker will be playing to impress, as he hopes to continue starting under Emery next season in European competition.
Comments