The battle for the FIFA Young Player Award, presented by Aramco, is intensifying as some of football’s brightest rising stars continue to make their mark at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
With the tournament now entering the quarter-final stage, a new generation of talent has stepped into the spotlight, producing match-winning performances and helping their nations advance in the competition.
Among the leading contenders for the prestigious award are Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, France’s Desire Doue, England’s Nico O’Reilly and Spain sensation Lamine Yamal, all of whom have impressed throughout the knockout rounds.
Also read: The Front pages: Wednesday, 8th July, 2026 (Newspapers)
Bouaddi powering Morocco’s historic run
Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has emerged as one of the tournament’s most influential young players.
The Lille teenager has been instrumental in guiding the Atlas Lions to the quarter-finals, dictating play from midfield with remarkable maturity and composure beyond his years.
Bouaddi’s intelligence extends beyond football. He reportedly won a public-speaking competition at age 15, completed his baccalaureate at 16, and is currently pursuing a degree in mathematics.
On the pitch, the 18-year-old has combined technical quality with physical strength, helping Morocco control matches and maintain their impressive World Cup momentum. His next challenge comes against France in a blockbuster quarter-final showdown.
Doue shining for France
France forward Desire Doue continues to justify his reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
The Paris Saint-Germain star has seamlessly carried his club form onto the international stage, playing a crucial role in France’s journey to the last eight.
Doue has featured prominently for Didier Deschamps’ side, scoring once and winning the decisive penalty that Kylian Mbappé converted in France’s narrow Round of 16 victory over Paraguay.
Already a two-time Ligue 1 Young Player of the Season winner, the 21-year-old is proving he belongs among the elite on football’s biggest stage.
O’Reilly becoming England’s reliable performer
England defender Nico O’Reilly has quietly established himself as one of Thomas Tuchel’s most trusted players.
The Manchester City full-back has started four of England’s five World Cup matches and has been a key figure in the Three Lions’ defensive solidity.
Among England’s regular starters, O’Reilly ranks among the team’s best performers in passing accuracy and tackles won.
The 21-year-old came agonisingly close to scoring his first World Cup goal during England’s dramatic Round of 16 victory over Mexico, striking the post in a tense encounter.
His consistency and versatility have made him one of England’s standout performers in the tournament.
Yamal continues to dazzle for Spain
Few young players have generated as much excitement as Lamine Yamal, who remains one of the favourites for the award.
The Barcelona wonderkid has gradually returned to full fitness following a hamstring injury and continues to showcase the exceptional talent that has made him one of world football’s most talked-about teenagers.
After scoring his first World Cup goal against Austria in the Round of 32, the 18-year-old completed his first full match of the tournament during Spain’s victory over Portugal.
Spain will now face Belgium in the quarter-finals, and if Yamal reaches top form, he could become one of the decisive figures in the race for both the World Cup title and the FIFA Young Player Award.
Quarter-finals set to shape award race
With the competition entering its decisive stages, performances in the quarter-finals and beyond could determine who ultimately claims the FIFA Young Player Award.
Bouaddi, Doue, O’Reilly and Yamal have all strengthened their credentials, but the race remains wide open as football’s next generation continues to shine on the grandest stage.