For many fans around the world, football is a way of life and a full time passion. Cristiano Ronaldo has been a role model for many of them for a long time, but at 37 years old, it is likely that his best years are behind him. Therefore, it’s time to start getting excited for the new class of up and coming footballers. Here are some of the rising stars of the football world, who have quickly attracted attention, and there are numerous free bets from sportsbooks such as Virgin Bet that cater their fans.
Nuno Mendes
Starting off the list is a name you have likely heard numerous times already in the last year. Nuno Mendes has been receiving a lot of attention from the football media, and rightfully so. This young athlete has already proven himself to be exceptionally talented, and we are expecting big things from him in the future.
In his recent performances, Mendes has shown great defensive abilities. He can make interceptions at key moments, and is currently averaging 3.13 interceptions for every 90 minutes of play, as well as 2.45 tackles. Not only is he incredibly agile and resilient, but he has a tremendous gas tank and keeps up with opponents. He understands the game well, and can make plays where needed.
At just 19 years old, Mendes has demonstrated that he has the necessary skills and physical stature that is required to play in the best leagues in the world. In fact, he has already been scouted by the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Juventus. The most recent rumor is that Manchester United is looking to jump over the competition and sign him first.
Andre Shinyashiki
In MLS, Andre Shinyashiki has established himself as a rising star who stands out from the competition. At just 24 years old, Shinyashiki has already won awards for his talent, including the 2019 AT&T MLS Rookie of the Year. Across two seasons in the league, Shinyashiki has returned 11 goals for his team, the Colorado Rapids.
Shinyashiki left a lasting impression at the University of Denver, where he played for four years, scoring an impressive 28 goals in his senior year. He is currently hard at work preparing for the upcoming season in the US.
Francisco Ferro
Ferro is a center-back who has drawn comparisons to former Brazilian player Carlos Mozer. He is currently on H.N.K. Hajduk Split in Croatia. At 25 years old, Ferro is playing at the highest levels and demonstrating that he is exceptionally smart, as well as competitive.
What makes Ferro special is his blend of skills that allow him to dominate on the pitch. At 1.93m, he is tall and can cover ground fast. This allows him to disrupt the opposing players and intercept the ball. His passing is also very well developed, as he supports his team on both the defending and attacking side. Ferro’s coaches have all spoken very highly of him, and it’s rumored that he will get an opportunity to play on the Portugal national team soon.
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Francisco Trincão
Francisco Trincão is a right-winger with enormous potential. Currently on loan (from Barcelona) playing for Wolverhampton Wanderers and the Portuguese national team, there are no doubts left around Trincão. He is currently making a big name for himself and capturing the attention of football analysts everywhere, all at just 22 years old.
Everyone who watches Trincão immediately comments how agile and fast he is, and he compliments this with exceptional dribbling. After making his debut with Braga in 2018, Trincão went on to be very productive for the team. Now with Barcelona in La Liga, he had three goals in the 2020-2021 season, as well as two assists. Some have even gone on to call him the “new Ronaldo.” Reportedly, Trincão signed a 5-year €31 million contract with the club, and this shows they have immense faith in his future potential.
Florentino Luis
Florentino Luis has been pinned as one of the best young midfielder prospects in the game today, essentially a star in the making. His football IQ is off the charts, and he seamlessly transitions to different roles when the situation calls for it. He first broke onto the scene as part of Benfica, but is currently with Getafe C. F.
One of the strongest skills in Luis’ arsenal is his tackling ability and this is what coaches have immediately latched onto. He has established an average of 3.71 tackles and 3.41 interceptions for every 90 minutes of play. This is combined with strong passing skills and remarkable accuracy.
Bruno Tabata
Tabata is a 25 year old winger who recently signed with Sporting CP. The 5-year contract comes with a hefty buyout of €60 million. Tabata has shown his excitement after this move, remarking “It is the happiest day of my life. I am fulfilling one of my main dreams, which was to play for a European giant.” During his time in Algarve with Portimonense SC, Tabata was credited with 9 goals across 119 games.
Tabata has already made a big impression on the players and coaches around him. He has outstanding technique and footwork that allows him to excel at all angles of attack. While his attacking is quite powerful, his finishing skills could use some refinement. Overall, he has everything he needs to stand out with Sporting CP.
Nilton Varela
Finishing off the list is another young star that is generating a lot of buzz. Varela is a dynamic defender who has managed to build a reputation thanks to his technical skills and strong positioning. His professional career started in 2019 as a member of Belenenses SAD, where he currently remains. Interestingly enough, his debut began alongside his uncle Silvestre Varela, who is a 37 year old winger and started with the team the same year.
Varela is certainly starting off his career in the right way. Across 18 appearances in Liga NOS, he has returned 1 goal and 2 assists, metrics he aims to improve next season. He is definitely starter worthy, and has a high potential ceiling.
All of these players that we mentioned here are exceptional, and it is worth keeping an eye on them to watch how their careers evolve over the coming years.
