KYLIAN MBAPPE
(22, Paris Saint-germain)
It almost comes as a surprise that Kylian Mbappe is still only 22. The Frenchman has been among the leading strikers in the world for the better part of the last three years and even has a World Cup title to his name.
Clinical, pacy, versatile, stylish — Mbappe is many things. But the one aspect that stands out is his consistency. He has been indispensable in the Paris Saint Germain squad that has won the Ligue 1 three years running since his arrival in 2017. The Parisian striker nished the last two seasons as the league’s leading goalscorer and remains on top this term as well.
Widely known for his rapid bursts of pace and regarded as one of the fastest footballers in the world, Mbappe might well be on his way out of France. His contract is up for renewal next year, and while his teammate Neymar recently signed an extension, Mbappe seems to be cautiously playing the waiting game. The youngster has spent his entire professional career in the French Ligue 1 and will be keen to test himself in the more competitive European leagues such as the Premier League or La Liga. And there is a long list of potential suitors, reportedly including the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City, waiting to get Mbappe to sign the dotted line.
It is a nobrainer that Mbappe generates so much interest — he scored 42 goals in 47 games this season and steered PSG to the Champions League semifinals. His game has gone up a notch since Mauricio Pochettino’s arrival. Mbappe has been given the freedom to don the right ank, play down the centre, and at times even play in a more central defensive role. He has the talent and the skill to dictate the game irrespective of his position on the pitch and will have the spotlight shining brightly on him when the transfer window opens this summer, provided he does not extend his deal with the ninetime French champion.