Seven young talents from the U17 World Cup 2025 revealed in 2026

23.08.26 15:30 LaLiga Spain

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The U17 World Cup has long been a launchpad for future stars to take their first big leap onto the world stage. The 2025 edition in Qatar was no exception to this tradition.

In fact, FIFA has compiled a list of seven stars who shone at the U17 World Cup 2025 and have kept up their momentum through 2026, confirming the breadth of their talent.

Hamza Abdelkarim – Egypt and FC Barcelona

Scoring twice in four matches at the U17 World Cup 2025, Hamza Abdelkarim quickly grabbed the spotlight. Initially loaned by Al Ahly to Barça, he was permanently signed after proving himself with the Blaugrana youth squad. He netted a brace against Birmingham in his first-team debut under Hansi Flick and could be the surprise package of the season in Spain.

Mathew Baker – Indonesia and Melbourne City

The youngest player in Indonesia’s history at just 17 years and 23 days, Mathew Baker was one of the revelations of the U17 World Cup Qatar 2025. His versatility, playing both centrally and as a left-back, has made him one of Melbourne City’s top performers in Australia, the country of his birth.

Noah Fernandez – Belgium and PSV Eindhoven

The technical leader of Belgium at the U17 World Cup 2025, Noah Fernandez scored three goals, including two stunning free kicks. His dribbling skills and technical prowess have seen him continue his development at PSV Eindhoven. He has racked up 13 appearances and scored against Twente.

Remi Himbert – France and Lyon

Remi Himbert was one of the breakout stars for France’s U17 squad in Qatar. Scoring twice during the tournament, he was called up to Lyon’s senior team for a match against Brest last season. Himbert set a new record as the youngest European goalscorer for OL, surpassing Karim Benzema, at just 17 years and 334 days old.

Samuele Inacio – Italy and Borussia Dortmund

He scored four goals to lead Italy to third place at the U17 World Cup 2025. The Italian made his Bundesliga debut for Dortmund last February against Bayern Munich. He opened his Bundesliga account a few months later against Eintracht Frankfurt and received a call-up to the Azzurri senior squad in June.

Cavan Sullivan – United States and Philadelphia Union

Two goals and two assists in four matches—that was his tally for the USA in Qatar. Already integrated into Philadelphia Union’s first team, the young midfielder scored his first MLS goal in May against Orlando City at just 16 years and 227 days old. He is also set to join Manchester City when he comes of age.

Ze Lucas – Brazil, Sport Recife and Cruzeiro

A defensive midfielder with remarkable tactical maturity, Ze Lucas impressed as Brazil finished fourth in Qatar. In 2026, he continued his rise, earning a regular spot in Sport Recife’s starting eleven. His performances then paved the way for a move to Cruzeiro, which he joined in July.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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