Thoughts on Five Young Stars to Watch at the World Cup

In this post, I am highlighting 5 young stars who I think people should be watching at this World Cup. They are the future of the sport, and could easily have a break out tournament that thrusts them from up and coming talent to elite world superstar. Any players either 23 or younger were deemed young enough to be mentioned.

Yoann Gourcuff (France)- It’s tough to be expected to step into Zinedine Zidane’s shoes and have the same impact as him at your first World Cup, but that is what the French expect from this talented 23 year old midfielder. After having a great year for underachieving Bordeaux, Yoann Gourcuff is expected to be on everyone’s transfer lists after a superb World Cup. An attacking midfielder with a knack for scoring eye popping goals, Gourcuff is expected to run the show for France, orchestrating the attack going forward and organizing the defense behind him.

Carlos Vela (Mexico)- It’s hard to imagine this explosive Mexican forward as younger than 23, since he’s been a well-known commodity for six years already. Carlos Vela was thrust into the limelight when he signed from his hometown club of Guadalajara to London giants Arsenal Football Club, a club known for plucking young talent and building their teams around them. He went on loan for the first two years of being Arsenal’s property, returning in 2008. Since returning though, Vela has had trouble breaking into the first team, making only twenty five total appearances for the Gunners, scoring twice. This is different for the Mexican national team though, where Vela, despite only being 21 years old, is expected to be a starter. His play against England in a recent friendly was encouraging though, as his link up play with Giovanni dos Santos is anticipated as being a crucial part of Mexico’s attack.

Lee Chung Yong (South Korea)- Despite only being 21 years of age, Yong was an important player during South Korea’s qualifying process. Playing on the right side of midfield, he had the explosiveness and speed that many young wingers use to attack opposing defenders, but also the decision making of what to do once they beat the defense that many players should have once they have more experience. Lee Chung Yong is currently applying his trade his England for Bolton Wanderers, where he did fantastically this year, and is expected to sign for a big club. A big World Cup for this youngster could lead to more interest in having his signature on a contract from big name clubs.

Michael Bradley (USA)- The hard man in the middle of the midfield for the USA, Michael Bradley’s tenacity and intensity easily stick out when one watches him play. A deeply passionate player, whose only drawback may be his possibility of receiving red cards for caring a little too much, Bradley is extremely important to the USA. An injury ridden defense behind him, the 22 year old native from New Jersey has the job of ensuring that the backline does not have much to do. He will most likely partner with Maurice Edu in the center of the midfield, another defensive player, which will allow Bradley to fly forward occasionally and show off his attacking prowess as well. Bradley is a vital player to the USA’s cause, and a big showing from him is necessary in order for his team to do well. Currently playing for Borussia Monchengladbach in Germany, playing well could secure a transfer to a club with a higher profile this summer.

Gervinho (Ivory Coast)- Another player who is expected to step into a national star’s boots, Gervinho will have many eyes watching him at this tournament. Expected to one day replace Ivorian captain and icon Didier Drogba, Gervinho will want to showcase his talent which has made him a standout player with his club team Lille in France. He netted 13 times for Lille this year, enough to put him in the top ten of scorers in Ligue 1 this year. A player with pace and a killer knack for scoring big goals, a big tournament from Gervinho will give Ivory Coast fans a little bit of reassurance for the future after Drogba’s retirement that the team will still be in reliable hands. A good showing would also be highly beneficial for Gervinho, already on the radar of many of Europe’s elite clubs, who could secure a big transfer this summer.