Rising stars outside Europe’s elite leagues
The CIES Football Observatory has unveiled its latest list of standout talents born in 2006 or later, shining a spotlight on players making waves beyond Europe’s established top five leagues. From Brazil to the Netherlands, these youngsters are already delivering performances that suggest they could become household names by 2026.
Among the headline names is Geovany Quenda, the Sporting winger whose pace and dribbling have earned him a move to Chelsea next summer. Alongside him, Feyenoord’s Givairo Read continues to impress as a modern full-back, while Ghana international Caleb Yirenkyi has already shown his versatility in Denmark with FC Nordsjaelland.
The Observatory’s analysis covered aerial play, recovery, distribution, chance creation and finishing, offering a comprehensive view of emerging talent. With several of these players already attracting interest from Europe’s biggest clubs, the list underlines the depth of quality developing outside the Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Ligue 1 and Serie A.
The atmosphere around these prospects is one of anticipation. Fans in Rotterdam have watched Read grow into a reliable option on the right flank, while Porto supporters saw Rodrigo Mora announce himself with a goal and assist on his first start. In Alkmaar, Kees Smit’s performances at the European Under-19 Championship earned him recognition from scouts across the continent.
Key incidents in their young careers have already set markers. Mora became the youngest European scorer in Club World Cup history against Al-Ahly, while Rayan Vitor fired Brazil to the South American Under-20 Championship and finished top scorer in the Copa do Brasil. Pedro Henrique, meanwhile, has dazzled with his close control at Zenit, drawing comparisons with past Brazilian greats.
Each goal and performance has carried significance. Goodrham-style bursts from Quenda down the wing, Mora’s composed finish on the international stage, and Rayan’s decisive strikes in knockout football all highlight the variety of talent emerging from these leagues.
The second half of their development will be crucial. With moves to bigger clubs on the horizon, tactical adaptation and consistency will determine whether they fulfil their potential. Gadou’s imposing presence at Salzburg and Montoro’s passing range at Botafogo suggest they are ready for the next step.
Late drama could yet come in the form of transfers. Smit is already on the radar of Manchester United and Real Madrid, while Quenda’s Chelsea switch is confirmed. These moves will shape the trajectory of their careers and test their ability to thrive under greater scrutiny.
Looking ahead, the message is clear: Europe’s next generation of stars is not confined to its richest leagues. From Read’s dynamism in Rotterdam to Rayan’s finishing in Rio, these players are redefining where talent can emerge. By 2026, several of them may well be leading figures on the biggest stages.