Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News

2023: Year Of Wonderkids In Women's Football - Breakout Stars

Manchester City's head coach Pep Guardiola waits for the start of the Group G Champions League soccer match between Red Star and Manchester City, at the Rajko Mitic Stadium in Belgrade, Serbia, Wednes

From youngsters making their Champions League debuts to 16-year-olds dazzling at the World Cup, 2023 was truly the year of the wonderkids in women's football. The next generation of talent is emerging, with players under the age of 20 showcasing their skills on the global stage.

One standout player is Keating, the 19-year-old goalkeeper who has become Manchester City's first-choice, impressing with a 78.9% save rate in the Women's Super League. Her rise has been meteoric, earning a call-up to England's senior camp and signing a contract until 2027.

Guzmán, another rising star, caught the eye at the 2023 World Cup with her performances for Colombia. Despite a knee injury setback, she has the talent and mentality to succeed at Bayern Munich in the Frauen Bundesliga.

Ortega, a 19-year-old Spanish talent, has already won the U-17 World Cup and the European Under-19 Championship. Her versatility on the field has made her a regular for Athletic Club in the Liga F team.

Koga, a technically skilled defender from Japan, made a bold move to Feyenoord in the Netherlands and has quickly established herself in the first XI. Her integration into the Japanese national team speaks volumes about her talent.

Scott, known as 'Costa Rica's Golden Girl,' impressed at the 2023 World Cup despite limited exposure beforehand. With her game-changing ability, she could follow in the footsteps of her idol, Shirley Cruz.

Yohannes, the youngest player in a USWNT camp since 2017, has already made waves at Ajax and in the Champions League. Her potential is limitless, as she continues to make headlines early in her career.

Dragoni, a 16-year-old Italian talent, has made a mark at Barcelona and Italy's national team. Her experience at a young age sets her apart, as she learns from top players like Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas.

Moultrie, a prodigious talent from the US, has been breaking records since a young age and is now a key player for the Portland Thorns and the USWNT. Her impact on the field at just 18 years old is remarkable.

Kaptein, a Dutch midfielder, has already won trophies with Twente and made a move to Chelsea. Her experience at a young age sets her up for success in the competitive WSL.

Kafaji, a Swedish forward, made headlines in the Champions League with BK Häcken, attracting interest from top clubs. Her skill and accuracy on the field make her a player to watch in the upcoming seasons.

López, a talented midfielder from Barcelona, has already won the Champions League and earned a regular spot in the first team. Her footballing intelligence at just 17 years old is exceptional, setting her on a path to greatness.

Phair, the youngest player at the 2023 Women's World Cup, has signed for Angel City in the NWSL at just 16 years old. Joseph, a 17-year-old talent at Lyon, is making waves in one of the top women's teams in the world.

These young players represent the future of women's football, with their talent and determination paving the way for a new generation of stars.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.