As football continues to evolve, so does the emergence of new talents and the evolution of established stars. The year 2024 promises to be an exciting one in the world of football, with many players poised to make a significant impact on the global stage. Whether it’s young prospects breaking through, established stars maintaining their dominance, or seasoned veterans making their mark one last time, these footballers are set to define the narrative of the year. This article highlights the top 10 footballers to watch in 2024, focusing on their recent performances, potential, and what makes them stand out.
- Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain and France)
Kylian Mbappé has been at the forefront of football’s new generation of stars for several years now. At just 25 years old, he already boasts a World Cup title, multiple Ligue 1 titles, and numerous individual accolades. In 2024, Mbappé is expected to further solidify his status as one of the best players in the world.
With his blistering pace, clinical finishing, and exceptional dribbling skills, Mbappé is a nightmare for defenders. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to perform on the biggest stages, including the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and UEFA Euro. As the leader of both Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the French national team, Mbappé’s performances in 2024 will be crucial in determining the success of both his club and country.
Rumors of a potential move to another European giant have been circulating, and if such a transfer materializes, it could further elevate Mbappé’s status in world football. Regardless of where he plays, Mbappé will undoubtedly be one of the most watched and talked-about footballers in 2024.
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City and Norway)
Erling Haaland has taken the football world by storm with his extraordinary goal-scoring prowess. The Norwegian striker has quickly become one of the most feared forwards in the game, known for his incredible strength, speed, and clinical finishing. Since joining Manchester City in 2022, Haaland has broken numerous records, including the Premier League single-season goal record.
In 2024, Haaland’s goal-scoring abilities will be crucial as Manchester City continues its quest for domestic and European glory. His partnership with playmakers like Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden has already proven to be lethal, and under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, Haaland is expected to reach new heights.
For Norway, Haaland is the centerpiece of their hopes to qualify for major tournaments and make an impact on the international stage. As he enters his prime years, 2024 could see Haaland further establish himself as the best striker in the world, with many predicting he could challenge for the Ballon d’Or.
- Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid and Brazil)
Vinícius Júnior has rapidly developed into one of the most exciting and dynamic wingers in world football. The Brazilian’s dazzling dribbling, blistering pace, and eye for goal have made him a key player for both Real Madrid and the Brazilian national team. Having played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s recent successes, including La Liga titles and Champions League triumphs, Vinícius is set to continue his rise in 2024.
Under the tutelage of Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, Vinícius has refined his end product, making him a consistent threat in front of goal. His partnership with Karim Benzema and Rodrygo has turned Madrid’s attack into one of the most formidable in Europe.
For Brazil, Vinícius is expected to be one of the leaders of the new generation, especially with Neymar’s influence beginning to wane. As the Seleção eyes future success in international competitions, Vinícius will be at the heart of their attacking play. His performances in 2024 could see him emerge as one of the very best players in the world.
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid and England)
At just 20 years old, Jude Bellingham has already established himself as one of the most talented midfielders in the world. The Englishman’s move to Real Madrid in 2023 marked a significant step in his career, and he has quickly become an integral part of Los Blancos’ midfield.
Bellingham’s all-around abilities—his vision, passing range, ball control, and defensive work—make him a complete midfielder. His maturity and leadership on the pitch belie his young age, and he has been compared to some of the greatest midfielders in football history. In 2024, Bellingham’s performances will be crucial as Real Madrid aims to reclaim domestic and European dominance.
For England, Bellingham is already a key player, and he is expected to play a pivotal role in their quest for success in upcoming international tournaments. His potential seems limitless, and 2024 could be the year when Bellingham solidifies his status as one of the top midfielders in the game.
- Pedri (FC Barcelona and Spain)
Pedri, the young Spanish midfielder, has quickly become the heartbeat of both FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Known for his incredible vision, precise passing, and calmness under pressure, Pedri is often compared to Barcelona legends like Xavi and Andrés Iniesta.
Despite his youth, Pedri has already played a key role in Barcelona’s resurgence under Xavi Hernández. His ability to control the tempo of the game, combined with his work rate and intelligence, makes him one of the most valuable players in La Liga.
In 2024, Pedri’s influence at Barcelona is expected to grow even further as he continues to develop his game. For Spain, he will be central to their efforts in upcoming international competitions, where his creativity and composure will be essential. Pedri is widely regarded as one of the brightest talents in world football, and 2024 could see him take another significant step in his career.
- Marcus Rashford (Manchester United and England)
Marcus Rashford’s journey has been one of resilience, growth, and immense talent. The Manchester United forward has overcome challenges both on and off the pitch to establish himself as one of the most influential players in the Premier League. Known for his pace, powerful shots, and ability to play across the front line, Rashford is a constant threat to defenders.
Under the management of Erik ten Hag, Rashford has found consistency and confidence, leading Manchester United’s attack with a renewed sense of purpose. His goal-scoring exploits and leadership on the pitch have been instrumental in United’s resurgence.
For England, Rashford remains a crucial player, providing versatility and attacking options for Gareth Southgate. With major international tournaments on the horizon, 2024 could be a defining year for Rashford, both at the club and international level. His performances will be closely watched as he continues to fulfill his immense potential.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Napoli and Georgia)
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Georgian winger, has taken Serie A by storm since joining Napoli in 2022. His electrifying dribbling, creativity, and goal-scoring ability have made him one of the most exciting players to watch in Europe. Kvaratskhelia played a pivotal role in Napoli’s Serie A title-winning campaign in 2023, ending their 33-year Scudetto drought.
Kvaratskhelia’s rise to prominence has been meteoric, and in 2024, he is expected to further enhance his reputation as one of the top wingers in the game. His performances will be crucial as Napoli looks to defend their Serie A title and make a deep run in the UEFA Champions League.
For Georgia, Kvaratskhelia is the star player, and he carries the hopes of the nation on his shoulders. His talent has put Georgian football on the map, and he will be looking to inspire his country to qualify for major international tournaments. Kvaratskhelia’s dynamic playing style and potential for further growth make him one of the footballers to watch closely in 2024.
- Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich and Germany)
Jamal Musiala, the young German sensation, has quickly become one of the most exciting talents in European football. Known for his silky dribbling, vision, and composure in front of goal, Musiala has been a revelation for Bayern Munich and the German national team.
Despite his age, Musiala has already played a key role in Bayern’s dominance in the Bundesliga and has shown his quality on the European stage in the UEFA Champions League. His ability to play in various attacking positions makes him a versatile asset for any team.
In 2024, Musiala is expected to take on even more responsibility at Bayern Munich, especially with the departure of some key players. For Germany, he will be central to their plans as they prepare for upcoming international competitions. Musiala’s potential is enormous, and 2024 could be the year when he cements his place as one of the top young talents in world football.
- Declan Rice (Arsenal and England)
Declan Rice’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of impressive. The English midfielder, known for his defensive solidity, leadership, and ability to drive forward, has become one of the most sought-after players in Europe. His move to Arsenal in 2023 was a significant transfer, and he has quickly established himself as a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s midfield.
Rice’s performances have been instrumental in Arsenal’s quest to challenge for the Premier League title and compete in the UEFA Champions League. His ability to break up play, protect the defense, and distribute the ball efficiently makes him one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.
For England, Rice is a cornerstone of the midfield, providing balance and stability. As the Three Lions aim for success in upcoming tournaments, Rice’s contributions will be vital. In 2024, Rice’s leadership and performances will be under the spotlight as he continues to prove himself as one of the top midfielders in the game.
- Victor Osimhen (Napoli and Nigeria)
Victor Osimhen has emerged as one of the most prolific strikers in Europe. The Nigerian forward’s explosive pace, strength, and clinical finishing have made him a nightmare for defenders in Serie A. Since joining Napoli, Osimhen has become the focal point of their attack, playing a crucial role in their 2023 Serie A title triumph.
Osimhen’s goal-scoring exploits have attracted attention from top clubs across Europe, but his focus remains on helping Napoli achieve further success in both domestic and European competitions. His physical attributes, combined with his relentless work rate, make him a complete striker.
For Nigeria, Osimhen is the star player, leading the line with distinction. As the Super Eagles prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers, Osimhen’s goals will be crucial to their ambitions. In 2024, Osimhen is expected to continue his rise, potentially establishing himself as one of the best strikers in the world.
The year 2024 promises to be a thrilling one in the world of football, with these ten players set to play pivotal roles in shaping the narrative of the sport. From established superstars like Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland to emerging talents like Jamal Musiala and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, these footballers will be at the center of attention, captivating fans with their performances and influencing the outcome of major tournaments.
Whether it’s in domestic leagues, the UEFA Champions League, or international competitions, these players are expected to leave an indelible mark on the footballing landscape in 2024. As they continue to develop their skills, lead their teams, and chase personal and collective glory, these footballers are the ones to watch in the coming year.
