5 players aged 21 and below with most goal contributions in Europe this season (2021-22)
There is nothing more pleasing than seeing a young footballer grow into one of the best in the world. While it has always demanded consistency, in the modern era of football, it demands a lot of resilience as well.
Developing a player is one thing, but developing a great character has to be a necessity. Even the football GOATs Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have achieved success primarily because of their strong character and never give-up attitude.
European clubs have a lot of talented young players
Top clubs have focused on developing young players and it has paid off well for them. Right now, a good number of talented youngsters are playing for some of the top European teams.
These footballers are showing signs of greatness at a very young age. Amongst them, the attacking players have already contributed significantly this season and helped their respective teams. Here, we take a look at some of the most productive youngsters in the 2021-22 campaign so far.
Note: Only Europe's top five leagues are considered
#5 Emile Smith Rowe (Arsenal)
Some of the finest young talents in the Premier League right now are at Arsenal. At the age of 10, Emile Smith Rowe joined the youth academy of the Gunners.
The Englishman has been seen playing on a regular basis for the club since the start of the current 2021-22 season. Smith Rowe has given some amazing performances in front of goal using his intense energy, amazing creativity and hunger to score goals.
All of Emile Smith-Rowe’s Goal Contributions in 2021/22! https://t.co/Zuh1A4fzk3
The 21-year-old has so far scored nine goals and registered two assists in the ongoing Premier League campaign, contributing 11 goals in total. With an efficiency of 0.31 goals/shots, Smith Rowe ranks second-best in the league in this department.
#4 Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Another Arsenal player on the list is Bukayo Saka. The English youngster has been in sensational form in the 2021-22 season.
After a successful and productive Euro 2020, Saka has continued with his good form in the Premier League. His ability to play in multiple positions with utmost efficiency has been a blessing for manager Mikel Arteta. That being said, Saka's most productive output has come from the flanks.
Bukayo Saka (13) has the most league goals and assists of any U21 player in the Premier League 🌟 https://t.co/1VQeFu7r3h
The 20-year-old Gunner has so far scored eight goals and registered three assists in the 2021-22 season, contributing 13 goals in total. Saka's performances remain a major factor in Arsenal's aspirations to qualify for the Champions League next season.