This year’s FIFA U20 World Cup is guaranteed to crown a new champion, as reigning titleholders Uruguay failed to qualify for the tournament. The competition, being played in Chile, has already showcased an array of talented young players from across the continent – performances that are catching the attention of top European clubs.
Players we love and adore today got the breakthrough their careers needed after standout performances in youth competitions that caught the eye of clubs. Players such as Lionel Messi, Angel di Maria, Diego Maradona, Paul Pogba, Erling Haaland, and Sergio Aguero have shone in past editions of the competition, before going on to become world-class players.
This year, an array of U20 stars will travel to South America looking for World Cup glory. Strong performances at the FIFA U20 World Cup would not only raise the stock of young players who could feature in the summer of 2026 FIFA World Cup, but also see them make a move to their dream clubs.
So far, eight teams have been eliminated as the tournament progresses into the quarter-finals. Along the way, several young stars have caught the eye with standout performances, proving why the FIFA U20 World Cup remains one of the best stages for emerging talent to shine.
Players To Watch at the U20 World Cup
Benjamin Cremaschi (USA, Midfielder)
Midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi is currently the leading goal scorer in the tournament with five goals to his name.
The 20-year-old Inter Miami star, currently on loan at Italian side Parma, has been one of the standout performers of the FIFA U20 World Cup – impressing with his versatility, composure and clinical finishing in front of goal.
The player, who combines creativity in midfield with an eye for goal, has been instrumental in driving his team’s campaign and is now emerging as one of the U20 stars in world football.
Benjamin will be looking to add more goals to his impressive tally when his side faces Morocco in the quarter-finals of the competition, and with his current form and confidence in front of goal, the midfielder will be eager to continue his scoring streak and help the United States push closer to the FIFA U20 World Cup title.
Gianluca Prestianni (Argentina, Winger)
Daring winger Gianluca Prestianni is capable of operating effectively on both flanks, is regarded as one of Argentina’s brightest young prospects.
Having joined Portuguese giants Benfica over a year ago from Velez Sarsfield, he has steadily showcased his quality. His pace, flair, and direct style of play have earned him appearances in the league and particularly in the Club World Cup, where he impressed with his creativity and composure on the ball.
Still only 19, with his continuous improvement under the right coaches, many see him as a future star for both club and country.
Elias Montiel (Mexico, Defensive Midfielder)
Elias Montiel’s performances at the tournament have attracted serious attention, with Bayer Leverkusen and Ajax reportedly monitoring his situation closely. A product of the Pachuca academy, the talented midfielder has already made close to 80 appearances for the Mexican side – an impressive milestone for someone who is still only 20.
Having faced Real Madrid twice in the last six months – in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final and the FIFA Club World Cup – he stood out on both occasions, even found the net in the 80th minute of the Club World Cup. Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso later praised him in an interview, describing him as a player with “excellent ball control” and “a great future ahead.”
At the U20 World Cup, Montiel has continued to justify the hype surrounding his name. His composure, creativity, and leadership in midfield have been key to his tea’s advancement in the competition, proving that his rise is no coincidence but the result of hard work and natural talent.
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Alvaro Montoro (Argentina, Attacking Midfielder)
Argentine Alvaro Montoro is one of the brightest gems in Davide Ancelotti’s Botafogo, a club that was initially reluctant to release him for the tournament. However, thanks to Alvaro’s persistence, permission was eventually granted – a decision that has proven worthwhile.
A dynamic and technically gifted midfielder, he is capable of influencing the game from either side of the pitch, combining creativity with a tireless work rate.
Montoro, who made his professional debut for his boyhood club Velez Sarsfield in January 2024, quickly established himself as a key figure. His contributions were vital as the team captured their first league title in over a decade.
Despite only being 18 years old, he has already amassed over 50 senior appearances, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
Elyaz Zidane (France, Defender)
Elyaz Zidane is the youngest son of Real Madrid legend and one of the greatest players to play the game, Zinedine Zidane.
Elyaz, towering at 6’5″, is an undisputed starter in the France U20 side that has been tipped by many to go all the way in the competition.
Aside from having the upper hand in aerial duels due to his height, he possesses other key strengths, including his ability to cleanly win tackles. His game is more characterised by his smart positioning, quickness, and ability to recover ground.
Zidane recently helped France win the prestigious U-20 Maurice Revello 2025 tournament and looks set to be the team’s defensive leader in the World Cup.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Photosport
Recording Date: 11.10.2025