The business end of the season is getting close, the time when big names step up to do big things. When prizes are won and legends are born, it’s the time of the season that players and fans live for. But who are the five little stars who will be making their names next season?
We look at five players, one from each of Europe’s top five leagues, who could have their big break in the not-so-distant future and become superstars.
Alexander Isak, Striker, Borussia Dortmund (17):
As with any Swedish striker, comparisons to Zlatan Ibrahimovic are never far away for Alexander Isak.
The youngster from Solna, first in the list of five little stars, who began his career with local club AIK, was even directly compared to the Swedish great by his AIK teammate Chinedu Obasi.
Isak burst onto the scene in the 2016 Allsvenskan season scoring ten goals in just 24 games, including two in the Tvillingderbyt against local rivals Djurgården. He has since moved to Dortmund for an Allsvenskan record fee of €9 million and hopes to make a big impact on their first-team squad next season.
Jorge Mere, Centre Back, Sporting Gijon (20)
We keep hearing that there is a dearth of young talented centre-backs, but big clubs need to look no further than Jorge Mere.
The Spaniard has played for Spain at every age level, from U17 to U21, and has already earned a call-up to the senior squad.
He was key last season in keeping them in La Liga and has stood out again this year.
He is a relatively old-school type of central defender; powerful and robust. Top clubs are circling, with Chelsea reportedly interested in him. With some polishing, it could reach the top of the game.
Moise Kean, Striker, Juventus (17)
Kean, the first player born in 2000 to play in both Serie A and the Champions League, is a serious talent who is being tipped for big things.
Born in Italy to Ivorian parents, the striker has scored seven goals in 16 games for the Italian U17 side. Despite his tender age, his pace and physique have enabled him to play senior-level football. Next season, he will likely get even more chances and want to become a regular part of Juventus’ first-team squad.
Ben Woodburn, Attacker, Liverpool (17)
Liverpool have had some pretty special players come from their academy over the years, and many fans feel Ben Woodburn could be the next one.
He is their youngest-ever scorer, notching a goal against Leeds this season in the EFL Cup, and has already earned a senior call-up for Wales.
Recently, manager Jürgen Klopp noted that he would play a bigger role next season. He will try to follow in the footsteps of countryman Gareth Bale and forge a route to the top of European football.
Jorge, Left Back, AS Monaco (21)
Jorge aims to be the next Monaco player to hit the big time. The Brazilian left-back, brought in from Flamengo for £7.25 million, has already been capped by the Brazilian national team.
He has had his path to the first team blocked by Benjamin Mendy, but with Mendy likely to move this summer, Jorge will hope to fill his place.
Monaco beat Manchester City, Liverpool, and Milan to his signing. He was the best left-back at the 2015 U-20 World Cup. Expect Jorge to be the next Monaco player to go on to big things.
Do you agree with our selection of five little stars waiting to bang on the big football stage? If not, drop your own in the comments section.