Predicting which young players will succeed is never an easy task. Many factors can influence a player's career, including minutes played, form, injuries, and luck. However, some patterns do emerge. A successful loan spell, a tactical shift, or a long-term contract can be signs that a player is on the rise.

Here are ten young players under 23 who could have a breakout season in 2025/26. Some are already established stars, while others are still breaking through. What they have in common is momentum and the potential to make a big impact.

Giacomo Faticanti is a 20-year-old Italian defender who reads the game well and has strong positional awareness. He's good at breaking up play and making passes, and has the physicality to match his technical skills.

Luka Topalovic is a 19-year-old Slovenian midfielder who joined Inter last year. He's athletic, tall, and has a strong work rate, and is comfortable playing both box-to-box and in tight spaces.

Nestory Irankunda is a 19-year-old Watford winger who has promise and a clear eye for goal. He's fast, direct, and has spent time in the reserves and on loan in Switzerland.

Sael Kumbedi is a 20-year-old French full-back who has emerged as one of Ligue 1's most promising young players. He's fleet-footed, combative, and has defensive acumen and intensity.

Simone Pafundi is a 19-year-old Udinese playmaker who has generated hype for his close control, vision, and burst of pace. He's inventive and can unlock defences, but his ceiling is still speculative.

Castello Lukeba is a 22-year-old French centre-back who has slotted seamlessly into Leipzig's defence. He shines in one-on-one duels and initiates play from deep, and has a long-term contract with the club.

Carlos Baleba is a 21-year-old midfielder who has emerged as a force in Brighton's midfield. He thrives in the chaos of the press and has a full Premier League season under his belt.

Eliesse Ben Seghir is a 20-year-old Moroccan winger who has a tantalising blend of flair and productivity. He thrives in tight spaces and has narrowed the gulf between potential and real-world impact.

Harvey Elliott is a 20-year-old English midfielder who remains one of Liverpool's most artful players. He has a deft first touch and strong awareness between the lines, and has made eye-catching cameos in Europe and with England's U21s.

Alejandro Garnacho is a 20-year-old Argentine winger who remains a box of fireworks waiting to ignite. He has raw pace, confidence, and a strong output, but has recently struggled with form and may need a change of scene to rediscover his spark.