Impressing in one of Europe's biggest leagues is a strong way to make a name for yourself as a promising youngster - but there are plenty of exciting players coming through in the less heralded leagues too. The CIES Football Observatory, a research group, has analysed the data to compile a list , externalof the highest-ranked players born in 2006 or later who play outside of Europe's established top five leagues (Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Ligue 1 and Serie A). Its methodology, external took in data for aerial play, recovery, distribution, take on - which means dribbling the ball at least eight metres towards the opponents' goal - chance creation and finishing. Here are the top 10 players judged by those metrics - prospects who could well become more recognisable names in 2026.

Source: BBC December 27, 2025 11:09 UTC