WC 2014: Five youngsters to look out for : William Carvalho

Thursday, July 10, 2025

WC 2014: Five youngsters to look out for

Adnan Januzaj

The 19-year old was handed a Belgian cap for the World Cup and it was a move which couldn`t be stopped at any cost. Januzaj who was given a chance in the first team by former Manchester United manager, David Moyes in the 2013-14 season took the oppurtunity with both hands and was the best player for the `Red Devils` alongside goalkeeper David De Gea. The versatile winger who can also play centrally is touted to be the best emerging youngster in Europe and was regarded by Moyes to be the next Lionel Messi. With raw pace, dribbling abilities and a sharp eye for a goal, Januzaj will look to make most of the chances count in the Belgian shirt. He will play a significant role for his side in Rio and it will be interesting to see his capabilities in the world`s biggest stage.

Paul Pogba

With a price tag of 60 million pounds behind him the 21-year old Paul Pogba is the hottest property amongst youngsters in footballing scenario. Just two years ago he left Manchester United as a free transfer for Juventus and the French lad since then has rose like a falcon. Under the guidance of Juve coach Antonio Conte, Pogba has become a household name for his club and country. France coach Didier Deschamps has used Pogba regularly in the starting line-up and sees him as one of the most influential players. Pogba is regarded as the next best midfielder in the world in the coming years and in Brazil, Pogba will try to showcase why he is a genius in the middle of the park for France. Brilliant on the ball and good tackling prowess makes Pogba a big threat for opponents.

Raheem Sterling

The England star got the big ticket to Brazil after a dream season with English heavyweights Liverpool. Reds boss Brendan Rodgers used Sterling in the diamond formation as an attacking point of the midfield quartet and Sterling proved his credentials to impress everybody around. The fearless attacker can play on both flanks and has the special ability to score goals in a frequent basis. Roy Hodgson will use Sterling in the left mostly as a sub and the latter can cause damage with dangerous runs and link-up with Daniel Stuirridge and Wayne Rooney. The 19-year old is one of the best versatile youngsters in the history for the Three Lions and will be a hot property to watch in Rio this term.

Memphis Depay

One of the upcoming talents in recent times, Memphis Depay is a character to watch. The PSV Eindhoven 20-year old winger had an outstanding campaign for his club and has already attracted major clubs to attain his services. Louis van Gaal who has great faith in youngsters has given Depay the oppurtunity to shine In Rio. Depay who was emphatic for both country and club this season looks a lethal asset to create enough chances and also score goals for the Dutch. With a transfer linking him to Manchester United Depay will have van Gaal`s attention and he will look to impress the former Bayern Munich coach in Rio.

William Carvalho

Portugal`s defensive midfield sensation William Carvalho is a rare talent and is one of the bright prospects in European football. Carvalho who plays for Sporting Lisbon has created enough furore amongst think tanks and is sought out by leading clubs. The 22-year old looks secure, intelligent without the ball and is capable of covering for his defence without making too many fouls. What looks more impressing is that he rarely loses possession. Born in Angolia, he is one of the African stars to make a big mark in Portuguese league in his first season itself. Carvalho`s first call-up arrived in November 2013, for the play-off against Sweden. He made his debut and proved that he is ready for the World Cup. Though being a second choice to coach Paulo Bento, he will provide enough headaches to the latter in selection process and that for Bento is something nice to have.