Top 5 Emerging Young Talents to Follow in the Copa America 2024 Tournament
The 2024 Copa America tournament is just around the corner and the fans could experience an amazing collection of young talents from all across the American continent. In every major international tournament, a new name comes to our attention and earns the attention of several elite clubs in Europe if they successfully assert themselves with big performances on the international stage.
The tournament begins on June 20 and will feature 16 teams from all across the continent. Let’s take a look at some of the best young players to watch in Copa America 2024.
1. Endrick (Brazil)
The Brazilian sensation has confirmed his move to Real Madrid and will sign his contract on July 21 when he turns 18. The 17-year-old stepped off the bench to snatch a late-minute winner against Mexico earlier this month. A Palmerias youth product, the youngster broke into the first-team at 16 and seems to have a good head on his shoulders.
Endrick became the second Brazilian player after Pele to score three goals in three successive games for the Selecao and has drawn comparisons with the three-time World Cup-winning legend. The 17-year-old is one of the most highly-rated youngsters in South America who is expected to properly announce himself on the international stage this summer.
2. Alejandro Garnacho (Argentina)
The Man United academy graduate has been in sensational form over the past two seasons. The 20-year-old arrives at the Copa America with plenty of global recognition but will mostly act as a back-up to former Real Madrid winger Angel Di Maria, who has occupied the right wing throughout his international career.
Alejandro Garnacho has made only five appearances for the national side and is also expected to represent Argentina in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. The Argentina setup is stacked with forwards and attacking midfielders, so the youngster could be a late option when the opposition defender’s legs start to tire.
3. Savio (Brazil)
The talented teenager was one of the successful stories in La Liga last season. Savio was undoubtedly one of the driving forces in Girona’s unexpected push for the La Liga title and their first Champions League qualification in the club’s history. The young Brazilian turned up 41 times for Girona last season, scoring 10 goals and notching 10 assists.
The Brazilian has reportedly agreed to a contract to join Manchester City in the summer and will likely add competition to Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku in the wide areas. Savio has shown his versatility, having been deployed in four different positions last season.
Also Read: Where and how to watch Copa America 2024 live for free?
4. Folarin Balogun (USA)
The Arsenal academy graduate signed a five-year contract with French side Monaco last summer. Since switching his national allegiance to the United States, Folarin Balogun has proved himself as a top goalscorer for the national side. Balogun has already contributed six goals in his first 10 starts for USMNT.
Last season was quite dreadful for the former Arsenal striker, as he averaged only 58 minutes per match. But despite his struggles at Monaco, Balogun has been a revelation for USMNT and is now a part of their young attack led by captains Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna, and Timothy Weah. Balogun, still young, would continue to develop his skills and gain exposure on the international stage.
5. Santiago Gimenez (Mexico)
The 23-year-old Mexico forward has registered 23 goals and six assists in 30 games in the Eredivisie this season. He failed to make it to the World Cup squad in 2022 but the striker looks like the only Mexican player to reach the elite level this summer. Gimenez possesses physical strength and technical ability, which could make a huge difference for El Tri in the United States.
The Mexican is expected to lead the attack in the highly-anticipated Copa America. Gimenez has been linked with a move to the Premier League this summer, with Arsenal and Liverpool both vying for the forward’s signature. Gimenez can hit the ground running in the English top flight if he wishes to leave the Eredivisie.