 Jozy Altidore of Villarreal |
"There's speed combined with his physical qualities and a very good sense for goal. When he's facing a defender, he's very good going at him, which is kind of unusual for a player that size. You don't see those kind of qualities often"
Bruce Arena, former USA coach
"He's gonna be unbelievable"
Mo Johnston, former Red Bulls coach
"He's still a kid. He has an enormous amount of talent. He can be as good as he wants. He's a big asset for MLS and American soccer"
Juan Pablo Ángel, Red Bulls player
A veteran of every level of his country's youth national team, Jozy Altidore is considered one of the hottest properties in U.S. football.
The Jersey-born powerhouse has bags of pace, power and a killer's eye for important goals.
Critics reel off the names of onetime MLS starlets who faded after making a good first impression. But there is reason to believe Altidore is different, for he has a lot more going for him than that instinctive scoring touch.
It's no secret that the best players in any sport are the ones who are strongest mentally. And despite his early success, Altidore apparently operates with a complete absence of ego.
His coach at Red Bulls, Bruce Arena, is understandably protective of the Haitian-American phenom as the club have a vested interest in keeping the young star grounded.
It is precisely this combination of skill, size, youth and attitude that makes Altidore such an alluring prospect for wealthy European clubs.
Altidore, who was attended the Adidas Elite Soccer Program in 2005 in order to further develop his playing skills, was drafted in the second round by MetroStars - the previous name of Red Bulls - with the 17th overall pick in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft.
He first stepped into an MLS match as a 16-year-old at New England on September 2006, coming on as a substitute in the 81st minute, while working towards his high school diploma in Florida.
A week later, just 18 minutes into his career, he scored his first professional goal in brilliant fashion, blasting a 30-yard match-winning screamer that sailed into the top right corner of stunned Columbus Crew goalkeeper Bill Gaudette's net.
He was the youngest player to start in an MLS playoff match on October 2006, against D.C. United in the Eastern Conference Semifinals Series at 16 years, 349 days. Eight days later, he scored Red Bulls' only goal of their 2-1 aggregate loss to D.C. United, making him the youngest player to score in the MLS playoffs at 16 years, 357 days - breaking DaMarcus Beasley's record by almost three years.
In the span of just nine months of his career, Altidore has emerged from intriguing prospect to the most talked-about U.S. football teenager not named Freddy Adu.
He helped pick up the struggling Red Bulls team and carry it to the playoffs. In all, he scored four times in just nine appearances.
Altidore started his international career with the United States U-17 team, and was part of the squad it the 2005 FIFA U-17 World Championship.
He has also participated in the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada, where he scored four goals in three games, including two in a 2-1 win over Brazil - leading the U.S. to a quarterfinals berth. There they were defeated by Austria 2-1 after extra time with Altidore scoring a goal in the first half.
In 2007, Altidore was a candidate for ESPN The Magazine's 2007 NEXT issue, which highlights some of the top up-and-coming athletes across the nation. He is one of the stars featured in Adidas' Impossible is Nothing advertisements, and was also featured on the cover of the North American version of the EA Sports hit, FIFA 08, along with Brazilian star Ronaldinho and Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. Taking in this scene, it's hard to believe that a year earlier he hadn't played a minute of professional football.
Altidore received his first call up to the senior national team for a friendly game against South Africa on November 2007, just three days after his 18th birthday. He came in as a substitute for Clint Dempsey in the 65th minute. On February 2008, he made his first start for the national team in a friendly against Mexico, where he also scored his first goal in the 2-2 draw.
On June 4, 2008, La Liga outfit Villarreal splashed out $10 million to sign Altidore, who scored 15 times in 37 games for Red Bulls. The deal surpasses Fulham's $4 million fee for Clint Dempsey, and is now the largest fee paid for any MLS player.
But before he lines up for the Yellow Submarine, the teenager joined Piotr Nowak's U.S. roster that competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where they were eliminated in the first round.
Young Jozy made his La Liga debut when he came on as a second half substitute against Deportivo La Coruña on September 2008. He then became the first American international to score in La Liga when he scored against Athletic Bilbao on November 2008.
Football experts all agree that Jozy has everything a player needs to succeed on the highest level of football. He's a quality finisher, with immense size and strength for a kid his age. But he still has plenty of room to grow.
Full name: Josmer Volmy Altidore
Date of birth: November 6, 1989
Birthplace: Livingston, New Jersey, United States
Nationality: American
2nd nationality: Haitian
Height: 1.77 m
Weight: 79 kg
Club: Villarreal
Position: Striker
Number: 24
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Technorati tags: United States Villarreal Jozy Altidore
The Jersey-born powerhouse has bags of pace, power and a killer's eye for important goals.
Critics reel off the names of onetime MLS starlets who faded after making a good first impression. But there is reason to believe Altidore is different, for he has a lot more going for him than that instinctive scoring touch.
It's no secret that the best players in any sport are the ones who are strongest mentally. And despite his early success, Altidore apparently operates with a complete absence of ego.
It is precisely this combination of skill, size, youth and attitude that makes Altidore such an alluring prospect for wealthy European clubs.
Altidore, who was attended the Adidas Elite Soccer Program in 2005 in order to further develop his playing skills, was drafted in the second round by MetroStars - the previous name of Red Bulls - with the 17th overall pick in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft.
He first stepped into an MLS match as a 16-year-old at New England on September 2006, coming on as a substitute in the 81st minute, while working towards his high school diploma in Florida.
A week later, just 18 minutes into his career, he scored his first professional goal in brilliant fashion, blasting a 30-yard match-winning screamer that sailed into the top right corner of stunned Columbus Crew goalkeeper Bill Gaudette's net.
He was the youngest player to start in an MLS playoff match on October 2006, against D.C. United in the Eastern Conference Semifinals Series at 16 years, 349 days. Eight days later, he scored Red Bulls' only goal of their 2-1 aggregate loss to D.C. United, making him the youngest player to score in the MLS playoffs at 16 years, 357 days - breaking DaMarcus Beasley's record by almost three years.
He helped pick up the struggling Red Bulls team and carry it to the playoffs. In all, he scored four times in just nine appearances.
Altidore started his international career with the United States U-17 team, and was part of the squad it the 2005 FIFA U-17 World Championship.
He has also participated in the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada, where he scored four goals in three games, including two in a 2-1 win over Brazil - leading the U.S. to a quarterfinals berth. There they were defeated by Austria 2-1 after extra time with Altidore scoring a goal in the first half.
In 2007, Altidore was a candidate for ESPN The Magazine's 2007 NEXT issue, which highlights some of the top up-and-coming athletes across the nation. He is one of the stars featured in Adidas' Impossible is Nothing advertisements, and was also featured on the cover of the North American version of the EA Sports hit, FIFA 08, along with Brazilian star Ronaldinho and Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. Taking in this scene, it's hard to believe that a year earlier he hadn't played a minute of professional football.
On June 4, 2008, La Liga outfit Villarreal splashed out $10 million to sign Altidore, who scored 15 times in 37 games for Red Bulls. The deal surpasses Fulham's $4 million fee for Clint Dempsey, and is now the largest fee paid for any MLS player.
But before he lines up for the Yellow Submarine, the teenager joined Piotr Nowak's U.S. roster that competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where they were eliminated in the first round.
Young Jozy made his La Liga debut when he came on as a second half substitute against Deportivo La Coruña on September 2008. He then became the first American international to score in La Liga when he scored against Athletic Bilbao on November 2008.
Football experts all agree that Jozy has everything a player needs to succeed on the highest level of football. He's a quality finisher, with immense size and strength for a kid his age. But he still has plenty of room to grow.
Full name: Josmer Volmy Altidore
Date of birth: November 6, 1989
Birthplace: Livingston, New Jersey, United States
Nationality: American
2nd nationality: Haitian
Height: 1.77 m
Weight: 79 kg
Club: Villarreal
Position: Striker
Number: 24
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 Ryan Babel of Liverpool |
"He has the body, speed and pace – everything he needs to develop his game. In fact, he could be the new Thierry Henry"
George Boateng, former Netherlands player
"He has all the potential to be the next Thierry Henry"
Marco van Basten, former Netherlands coach
"He's quick, strong and you can't guess what he's going to do next because he's a bag of tricks"
Kenny Dalglish, Liverpool legend
A tall, quick striker who can play on the wings or through the middle, Ryan Babel is one of the many players from the famous Ajax youth production line.
The right-footed Babel is predominantly a left winger but can also be employed as striker or on the opposite wing.
His speed and trickery equip him to cause defenders problems and, allied with his scoring threat, make him a real handful.
With awareness of the field, great vision, good first touch, and strength on the ball, he handles situations well.
Scouted by Ajax at the age of eleven, the Amsterdam-born forward played the 1998/99 season for their D1 team.
He then passed through the C1, B1 and A1 teams quickly, and, in January 2004, he signed his first professional contract.
On February 2004, Babel made his first team debut for Ajax as a 17-year-old in the 4-0 win against ADO Den Haag.
Nine months later, the youngster registered his first senior goal in a 5-0 league win against De Graafschap.
He played three seasons at the Amsterdam ArenA with a record of 14 goals in 73 Eredivisie outings, before moved to Liverpool in July 2007 in a five-year deal worth £11.5 million.
He was handed the number 19 shirt and made his Premier League debut as a second-half substitute at Aston Villa in the opening day of the 2007/08 season.
It wasn't long before he opened his goal account in a red shirt, defeating two Derby County defenders before lashing home in a 6-0 romp over newly-promoted Derby at Anfield.
Another nine goals followed in a satisfying first year, including his first Champions League goal for Liverpool in an 8-0 demolition of Beşiktaş. He netted twice in the game - one being a cheeky back-heel - and almost completed a hat-trick, from a header from a Harry Kewell cross, but was denied by the crossbar.
Babel has been part of the Netherlands national team since March 2005, when coach Marco van Basten sent him as a first-half substitute for the injured Arjen Robben in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Romania in Bucharest. He paid off van Basten's faith by scoring the second goal in a 2-0 win, making him the fourth-youngest goalscorer in the Dutch history and the youngest in 68 years at the age of 18 years and 97 days.
Despite featuring at senior level, Babel was still eligible for the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup, being held in the Netherlands. He scored two goals in four games as the Netherlands reached the quarter-finals. There they were defeated by Nigeria, 10–9 in a penalty shoot-out, at which Babel scored his penalty.
In 2006, van Basten included Babel in the Dutch 23-man squad for 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, though he only featured once, as a second-half substitute for Ruud van Nistelrooy in the group match against Argentina.
Babel was one of the stars as the Netherlands U-21 team won the European Championships on home soil. His two goals included one in the 4-1 victory over Serbia in the final, helping him scoop man of the match.
In May 2008, Babel was selected for the Dutch squad which will compete in the Euro 2008 Finals in Austria and Switzerland. Sadly, he was removed from the squad after sustaining an ankle ligament injury in training.
He was part of the Dutch team for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, which they were knocked out by Nigeria in the quarter-finals.
After being slowly blooded into the Liverpool side, Babel has became a more prominent figure in the Reds line-up and is being hotly tipped for this season to be his breakout season.
Full name: Ryan Guno Babel
Date of birth: December 19, 1986
Birthplace: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Nationality: Dutch
Height: 1.85 m
Weight: 78 kg
Club: Liverpool
Position: Forward
Number: 19
Honours:
UEFA U-21 European Championship (2007)
Dutch Johan Cruijff-schaal (2005, 2006)
Dutch KNVB Cup (2006, 2007)
Liverpool Young Player of the Season (2008)
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Technorati tags: Netherlands Liverpool Ryan Babel
The right-footed Babel is predominantly a left winger but can also be employed as striker or on the opposite wing.
His speed and trickery equip him to cause defenders problems and, allied with his scoring threat, make him a real handful.
With awareness of the field, great vision, good first touch, and strength on the ball, he handles situations well.
Scouted by Ajax at the age of eleven, the Amsterdam-born forward played the 1998/99 season for their D1 team.
On February 2004, Babel made his first team debut for Ajax as a 17-year-old in the 4-0 win against ADO Den Haag.
Nine months later, the youngster registered his first senior goal in a 5-0 league win against De Graafschap.
He played three seasons at the Amsterdam ArenA with a record of 14 goals in 73 Eredivisie outings, before moved to Liverpool in July 2007 in a five-year deal worth £11.5 million.
He was handed the number 19 shirt and made his Premier League debut as a second-half substitute at Aston Villa in the opening day of the 2007/08 season.
It wasn't long before he opened his goal account in a red shirt, defeating two Derby County defenders before lashing home in a 6-0 romp over newly-promoted Derby at Anfield.
Another nine goals followed in a satisfying first year, including his first Champions League goal for Liverpool in an 8-0 demolition of Beşiktaş. He netted twice in the game - one being a cheeky back-heel - and almost completed a hat-trick, from a header from a Harry Kewell cross, but was denied by the crossbar.
Babel has been part of the Netherlands national team since March 2005, when coach Marco van Basten sent him as a first-half substitute for the injured Arjen Robben in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Romania in Bucharest. He paid off van Basten's faith by scoring the second goal in a 2-0 win, making him the fourth-youngest goalscorer in the Dutch history and the youngest in 68 years at the age of 18 years and 97 days.
In 2006, van Basten included Babel in the Dutch 23-man squad for 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, though he only featured once, as a second-half substitute for Ruud van Nistelrooy in the group match against Argentina.
Babel was one of the stars as the Netherlands U-21 team won the European Championships on home soil. His two goals included one in the 4-1 victory over Serbia in the final, helping him scoop man of the match.
In May 2008, Babel was selected for the Dutch squad which will compete in the Euro 2008 Finals in Austria and Switzerland. Sadly, he was removed from the squad after sustaining an ankle ligament injury in training.
He was part of the Dutch team for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, which they were knocked out by Nigeria in the quarter-finals.
After being slowly blooded into the Liverpool side, Babel has became a more prominent figure in the Reds line-up and is being hotly tipped for this season to be his breakout season.
Full name: Ryan Guno Babel
Date of birth: December 19, 1986
Birthplace: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Nationality: Dutch
Height: 1.85 m
Weight: 78 kg
Club: Liverpool
Position: Forward
Number: 19
Honours:
UEFA U-21 European Championship (2007)
Dutch Johan Cruijff-schaal (2005, 2006)
Dutch KNVB Cup (2006, 2007)
Liverpool Young Player of the Season (2008)
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 Diego Buonanotte of River Plate |
"River might not have Messi, but we've got Buonanotte"
Héctor Pitarch, River Plate youth divisions co-ordinator
"Diego is a priceless talent"
José María Aguilar, River Plate president
Small in stature, technically gifted and a wonderful finisher, Diego Buonanotte is one of the most exciting talents to have emerged from Argentina in recent years.
At just 1.60m, Buonanotte is tiny figure but has the ability to get a hold of for any prolonged period of time.
His low of centre of gravity, combined with elusive movement and the customary Latin dribbling ability, allow him to ghost past defenders in a manner which at times defies logic.
The diminutive star shot to stardom when he was handed a shock full debut for River Plate in the Super Clásico against bitter rivals Boca Juniors, only one week after coming in as a substitute for the second time in his career and scoring his first goal at senior level.
River won 2-0, and it all started going right for Buonanotte as he was named man of the match in the biggest match in Argentina.
He didn't score, but his performance - which led to a standing ovation when Buonanotte was subbed late in the match - was the true arrival, demonstrating the youngster's ability.
Buonanotte, who was named by World Soccer Magazine as one of the '50 most exciting teenagers in the world, has since been included as a regular starter in the team.
Under new boss Diego Simeone in the first half of 2008, El Enano just kept getting better, finishing as club top scorer with nine goals in their march to the Clausura 2008 trophy.
River fans voted him their most important player, narrowly ahead of club legend Ariel Ortega, as Los Millonarios claimed their first league title in four years.
In a star-studded list of Argentina which won a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Buonanotte was the only home-based player apart from Boca playmaker Juan Román Riquelme.
He only played one full match, the final group game against Serbia, but scored the second in a 2-0 win from a far free kick.
His early adventures in the Albiceleste jersey, though, were less than satisfying as he was part of Argentina U-17 squad that failed to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005.
But still, the Estadio Monumental faithful see in Buonanotte a worthy successor to Millonarios legends such as Ortega, Hernán Crespo, Andrés D'Alessandro, Pablo Aimar and Javier Saviola.
Full name: Diego Mario Buonanotte Rende
Date of birth: April 19, 1988
Birthplace: Teodolina, Santa Fé, Argentina
Nationality: Argentinian
2nd nationality: Italian
Height: 1.60 m
Weight: 56 kg
Club: River Plate
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Number: 30
Honours:
Olympic Games (2008)
Argentinian Primera División (Clausura 2008)
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Technorati tags: Argentina River Plate Diego Buonanotte
At just 1.60m, Buonanotte is tiny figure but has the ability to get a hold of for any prolonged period of time.
His low of centre of gravity, combined with elusive movement and the customary Latin dribbling ability, allow him to ghost past defenders in a manner which at times defies logic.
The diminutive star shot to stardom when he was handed a shock full debut for River Plate in the Super Clásico against bitter rivals Boca Juniors, only one week after coming in as a substitute for the second time in his career and scoring his first goal at senior level.
River won 2-0, and it all started going right for Buonanotte as he was named man of the match in the biggest match in Argentina.
He didn't score, but his performance - which led to a standing ovation when Buonanotte was subbed late in the match - was the true arrival, demonstrating the youngster's ability.
Under new boss Diego Simeone in the first half of 2008, El Enano just kept getting better, finishing as club top scorer with nine goals in their march to the Clausura 2008 trophy.
River fans voted him their most important player, narrowly ahead of club legend Ariel Ortega, as Los Millonarios claimed their first league title in four years.
In a star-studded list of Argentina which won a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Buonanotte was the only home-based player apart from Boca playmaker Juan Román Riquelme.
He only played one full match, the final group game against Serbia, but scored the second in a 2-0 win from a far free kick.
His early adventures in the Albiceleste jersey, though, were less than satisfying as he was part of Argentina U-17 squad that failed to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Championship Peru 2005.
But still, the Estadio Monumental faithful see in Buonanotte a worthy successor to Millonarios legends such as Ortega, Hernán Crespo, Andrés D'Alessandro, Pablo Aimar and Javier Saviola.
Full name: Diego Mario Buonanotte Rende
Date of birth: April 19, 1988
Birthplace: Teodolina, Santa Fé, Argentina
Nationality: Argentinian
2nd nationality: Italian
Height: 1.60 m
Weight: 56 kg
Club: River Plate
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Number: 30
Honours:
Olympic Games (2008)
Argentinian Primera División (Clausura 2008)
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 Nicklas Bendtner of Arsenal |
"His speed and technique reminds me that of Thierry Henry but there is also a little bit of Zlatan Ibrahimović in his challenging and unpredictable style"
John Sivebæk, former Denmark international
"Nicklas is one of the most exciting young forwards in Denmark. He is the type of player who can single-handedly decide a match"
Flemming Serritslev, Denmark U-21 coach
"I think he is the one we are hanging our hopes on. I think he is going to be a sensational player for the future"
Former Danish international Jan Mølby
Regarded as one of Europe's top prospects, Nicklas Bendtner is learning from some of European football's finest coaches at Arsenal.
The striker had been rising through the ranks since moving from Copenhagen in the summer of 2004.
At 1.91m, Bendtner is tall and powerful, but the youngster has a deft touch on the floor.
Playing up front, his intelligent passing enticed midfield colleagues into attacking positions and his neat touches often worked space where there appeared none.
He has the ability to link midfield and attack with intelligence then finish off the move with precision.
Born in Danish capital, Copenhagen, Bendtner started playing football for Copenhagen club Kjøbenhavns Boldklub, where he scored four goals in six Danish national youth team matches before joining Arsenal.
On October 2005, Bendtner made his first team debut for the Gunners in a League Cup match against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, entering the scene as a substitute for Quincy Owusu-Abeyie in the final minutes.
After scoring 18 goals in 24 matches for Arsenal's reserves in the 2005/06 season, Bendtner was loaned out to Championship side Birmingham City in August 2006, with the loan initially lasting until January 2007.
The loan to Birmingham was extended through the end of the 2006/07 season as Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger decided that the experience would be good for Bendtner.
The 2007/08 season saw the Dane finally begin his first-team career at Arsenal as he signed a new five-year contract after having a successful season on loan at Birmingham, helping Midlands club return to the Premier League.
Bendtner's first competitive goal for the Gunners came on September 2007, in a 2–0 home victory over Newcastle United in a Carling Cup match.
On December 2007, Arsenal had a major victory against arch-rivals Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium, Bendtner playing substitute, powered home the winner with his first touch. He took only 1.8 seconds to perform this winning feat, which is the fastest goal ever scored by a substitute.
A week later, he saw red on his first Premier League start as he was sent off for two bookable offences in the game against Everton at Goodison Park.
Part of an exciting new generation coming through for Denmark, Bendtner was the youngest player selected for the Danish U-21 national squad for the 2006 European U-21 Championship tournament.
He earned his U-21 debut against Spain in a friendly match on May 2006, scoring both goals in his side's 2–0 win.
Bendtner, still only 18 years old, then got his first senior cap for the Danish national team in a friendly match against Poland on August 2006, making him the seventh youngest player on the Danish senior national team ever.
Full name: Nicklas Bendtner
Date of birth: January 16, 1988
Birthplace: Copenhagen, Denmark
Nationality: Danish
Height: 1.91 m
Weight: 78 kg
Club: Arsenal
Position: Striker
Number: 26
Honours:
Danish U-17 Player of the Year (2004)
Danish Talent of the Year (2007)
Technorati tags: Denmark Arsenal Nicklas Bendtner
The striker had been rising through the ranks since moving from Copenhagen in the summer of 2004.
At 1.91m, Bendtner is tall and powerful, but the youngster has a deft touch on the floor.
Playing up front, his intelligent passing enticed midfield colleagues into attacking positions and his neat touches often worked space where there appeared none.
Born in Danish capital, Copenhagen, Bendtner started playing football for Copenhagen club Kjøbenhavns Boldklub, where he scored four goals in six Danish national youth team matches before joining Arsenal.
On October 2005, Bendtner made his first team debut for the Gunners in a League Cup match against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, entering the scene as a substitute for Quincy Owusu-Abeyie in the final minutes.
After scoring 18 goals in 24 matches for Arsenal's reserves in the 2005/06 season, Bendtner was loaned out to Championship side Birmingham City in August 2006, with the loan initially lasting until January 2007.
The loan to Birmingham was extended through the end of the 2006/07 season as Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger decided that the experience would be good for Bendtner.
The 2007/08 season saw the Dane finally begin his first-team career at Arsenal as he signed a new five-year contract after having a successful season on loan at Birmingham, helping Midlands club return to the Premier League.
On December 2007, Arsenal had a major victory against arch-rivals Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium, Bendtner playing substitute, powered home the winner with his first touch. He took only 1.8 seconds to perform this winning feat, which is the fastest goal ever scored by a substitute.
A week later, he saw red on his first Premier League start as he was sent off for two bookable offences in the game against Everton at Goodison Park.
Part of an exciting new generation coming through for Denmark, Bendtner was the youngest player selected for the Danish U-21 national squad for the 2006 European U-21 Championship tournament.
He earned his U-21 debut against Spain in a friendly match on May 2006, scoring both goals in his side's 2–0 win.
Bendtner, still only 18 years old, then got his first senior cap for the Danish national team in a friendly match against Poland on August 2006, making him the seventh youngest player on the Danish senior national team ever.
Full name: Nicklas Bendtner
Date of birth: January 16, 1988
Birthplace: Copenhagen, Denmark
Nationality: Danish
Height: 1.91 m
Weight: 78 kg
Club: Arsenal
Position: Striker
Number: 26
Honours:
Danish U-17 Player of the Year (2004)
Danish Talent of the Year (2007)
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 Breno of Bayern Munich |
"He is a great footballer and played for my former team São Paulo. He is very talented and powerful"
Kaká, AC Milan player
"He tackled well, he boasts a lightning turn of pace, and he's collected on the ball, even when surrounded by three or four opponents. He's exceptionally mature for his age"
Jürgen Klinsmann, Bayern Munich coach
"Breno is a brilliant footballer, the best 18-year-old I've ever seen by a very long way"
Paul Breitner, Bayern Munich special advisor
A Brazil U-23 international and member of the Brazilian team that won the bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics, Breno was the third most expensive hiring for Bayern Munich last season.
The Bundesliga giants have landed the talented defender for a fee thought to be in the region of €12 million, such a big money for an 18-year-old.
Athletic, powerful and good on the ball, his movements on the pitch remind of compatriot Lúcio.
He was recommended to Bayern by former goal king Giovanne Élber, who played at the Säbener Strasse between 1997 and 2003 and is now working as one of their scouts in his native country, Brazil.
Breno, whose given name is Vinicius Rodrigues Borges, came through the São Paulo youth team and signed his first professional contract with the Brazilian outfit in July 2007.
The teenager, making his debut at just 17, was a rock at the heart of a São Paulo defence that won the league title with five games to spare and conceded just 19 goals in 38 matches, once keeping a clean sheet for 998 minutes.
This form did not go unnoticed as he was named 'Newcomer of the Season 2007' by Brazilian football journalists, and he came second in the race for Placar Magazine's Bola de Ouro, awarded to the player with the highest average match-rating in the Campeonato Brasileiro.
Following his exploits with São Paulo, Bayern were quick to move and fought off a host of big European clubs to sign the youngster, with AC Milan, Juventus, Fiorentina and Real Madrid all expressing interest.
But it was the Spanish powerhouse Real who almost swooped the versatile defender, equally comfortable at right-back or centre-half.
Faced with the possibility of a similar case to Leandro Lima at FC Porto, Los Blancos did not want to take a risk as they asked him to undergo a bone analysis to prove his young age.
Breno was stunned and told them in no uncertain terms what he thought of that idea.
In December 2007, Breno officially signed for Bayern on a four and a half year contract which will keep him at the Allianz Arena until June 2012.
And if Breno lives up to expectations, Real will soon look to Munich with jealousy and regret in their eyes.
Full name: Breno Vinicius Rodrigues Borges
Date of birth: October 13, 1989
Birthplace: Cruzeiro, São Paulo, Brazil
Nationality: Brazilian
Height: 1.87 m
Weight: 83 kg
Club: Bayern Munich
Position: Defender
Number: 35
Honours:
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (2007)
German DFB-Pokal (2008)
German Bundesliga (2008)
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Technorati tags: Brazil Bayern Munich Breno
The Bundesliga giants have landed the talented defender for a fee thought to be in the region of €12 million, such a big money for an 18-year-old.
He was recommended to Bayern by former goal king Giovanne Élber, who played at the Säbener Strasse between 1997 and 2003 and is now working as one of their scouts in his native country, Brazil.
Breno, whose given name is Vinicius Rodrigues Borges, came through the São Paulo youth team and signed his first professional contract with the Brazilian outfit in July 2007.
The teenager, making his debut at just 17, was a rock at the heart of a São Paulo defence that won the league title with five games to spare and conceded just 19 goals in 38 matches, once keeping a clean sheet for 998 minutes.
This form did not go unnoticed as he was named 'Newcomer of the Season 2007' by Brazilian football journalists, and he came second in the race for Placar Magazine's Bola de Ouro, awarded to the player with the highest average match-rating in the Campeonato Brasileiro.
But it was the Spanish powerhouse Real who almost swooped the versatile defender, equally comfortable at right-back or centre-half.
Faced with the possibility of a similar case to Leandro Lima at FC Porto, Los Blancos did not want to take a risk as they asked him to undergo a bone analysis to prove his young age.
Breno was stunned and told them in no uncertain terms what he thought of that idea.
In December 2007, Breno officially signed for Bayern on a four and a half year contract which will keep him at the Allianz Arena until June 2012.
And if Breno lives up to expectations, Real will soon look to Munich with jealousy and regret in their eyes.
Full name: Breno Vinicius Rodrigues Borges
Date of birth: October 13, 1989
Birthplace: Cruzeiro, São Paulo, Brazil
Nationality: Brazilian
Height: 1.87 m
Weight: 83 kg
Club: Bayern Munich
Position: Defender
Number: 35
Honours:
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (2007)
German DFB-Pokal (2008)
German Bundesliga (2008)
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 Karim Benzema of Olympique Lyonnais |
"He understands the game, makes all the right runs and, importantly, he knows exactly where the goal is"
Bernard Lacombe, Olympique Lyon director of sport
"Karim has so much talent. I've been playing with him since he was 17 and he keeps getting better and better. So long as he keeps his humility he will become one of the very best"
Juninho, Olympique Lyon captain
"Benzema is an extraordinary talent, who is so young and has lots of personality"
Fabio Grosso, Olympique Lyon player
A pure product of the Olympique Lyon youth academy, Karim Benzema is recognised as one of Europe's hottest young strikers.
His speed, power-play and his style of dramatic finishes made him a superstar in the world of football.
There have been rumors linking Benzema to European top clubs like Real Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan, Juventus, Liverpool and Arsenal.
And in order to quell all the transfer rumors surrounding Benzema, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has placed a staggering €100 million price tag on the striker.
Benzema grew up playing football from an early age and perfected his skills as a complete striker, capable of holding up play, winning headers and scoring from a variety of positions.
Of Algerian-Kabyle descent, the 9 year old Benzema was spotted by Lyon's scouts and was quickly signed into their youth academy.
His childhood hero is Ronaldo as he cited the Phenomenon as a major influence on his desire to play football.
Benzema was hugely successful in the underage system, scoring 38 goals in one season for Lyon's U-16s and firing hosts France to glory at the UEFA U-17 European Championships in 2004.
He was capped internationally for France's U-16s,U-17s and U-18s, and his underage national scoring record was an impressive 20 goals from 35 starts.
Benzema, who is capable of playing as a striker and a winger, made his breakthrough to the senior Lyon squad at the tender age of 17 in a French Ligue 1 match against Metz in 2005.
In 2006, Benzema was asked to play for the Algerian national team. But he politely rejected the offer stating that he would prefer to play for French national team.
He then earned his first cap on March 2007 in a friendly match against Austria that ended in a 1-0 victory with Benzema scoring the lone goal.
Benzema thus cemented his place in the French national team as a regular.
The prolific striker was selected to represent France at Euro 2008, but could not help Les Bleus from a disastrous campaign as they were knocked out in the first round of competition, claiming only one point from three games.
On March 2008, Benzema, who was nominated alongside Franck Ribéry and Wayne Rooney to be featured on the cover of the game FIFA 09, extended his contract with Lyon until 2013 with a one year extension option, making him one of the highest paid footballers in France.
Full name: Karim Benzema
Date of birth: December 19, 1987
Birthplace: Lyon, France
Nationality: French
2nd nationality: Algerian
Height: 1.83 m
Weight: 73 kg
Club: Lyon
Position: Striker
Number: 10
Honours:
French Ligue 1 (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008)
French Trophée des champions (2006, 2007)
Coupe de France (2008)
French Ligue 1 Player of the Year (2008)
French Ligue 1 Top Scorer (2008)
Technorati tags: France Olympique Lyon Karim Benzema
His speed, power-play and his style of dramatic finishes made him a superstar in the world of football.
And in order to quell all the transfer rumors surrounding Benzema, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has placed a staggering €100 million price tag on the striker.
Benzema grew up playing football from an early age and perfected his skills as a complete striker, capable of holding up play, winning headers and scoring from a variety of positions.
Of Algerian-Kabyle descent, the 9 year old Benzema was spotted by Lyon's scouts and was quickly signed into their youth academy.
His childhood hero is Ronaldo as he cited the Phenomenon as a major influence on his desire to play football.
Benzema was hugely successful in the underage system, scoring 38 goals in one season for Lyon's U-16s and firing hosts France to glory at the UEFA U-17 European Championships in 2004.
He was capped internationally for France's U-16s,U-17s and U-18s, and his underage national scoring record was an impressive 20 goals from 35 starts.
In 2006, Benzema was asked to play for the Algerian national team. But he politely rejected the offer stating that he would prefer to play for French national team.
He then earned his first cap on March 2007 in a friendly match against Austria that ended in a 1-0 victory with Benzema scoring the lone goal.
Benzema thus cemented his place in the French national team as a regular.
The prolific striker was selected to represent France at Euro 2008, but could not help Les Bleus from a disastrous campaign as they were knocked out in the first round of competition, claiming only one point from three games.
On March 2008, Benzema, who was nominated alongside Franck Ribéry and Wayne Rooney to be featured on the cover of the game FIFA 09, extended his contract with Lyon until 2013 with a one year extension option, making him one of the highest paid footballers in France.
Full name: Karim Benzema
Date of birth: December 19, 1987
Birthplace: Lyon, France
Nationality: French
2nd nationality: Algerian
Height: 1.83 m
Weight: 73 kg
Club: Lyon
Position: Striker
Number: 10
Honours:
French Ligue 1 (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008)
French Trophée des champions (2006, 2007)
Coupe de France (2008)
French Ligue 1 Player of the Year (2008)
French Ligue 1 Top Scorer (2008)
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 Manuel Neuer of Schalke 04 |
"Manuel Neuer has very much potential"
Jens Lehmann, former Schalke and Germany goalkeeper
"He is world class"
Mirko Slomka, former Schalke coach
"Manuel is a fantastic goalkeeper. I'd like someone to show me a better keeper in Germany"
Marcelo Bordon, Schalke captain
Considered to be one of the most talented young German keepers, Manuel Neuer is a promising candidate to succeed his hero and idol as a child, Jens Lehmann.
Neuer won the starting position at Schalke 04 on November 2006, when coach Mirko Slomka sprang a monumental surprise in the run-up to a crunch home clash against Bayern Munich, dropping experienced first-choice keeper Frank Rost and installing Neuer in his place.
The Royal Blues drew 2-2 with the champions, the first match in a storming undefeated run that has yielded 32 of a possible 36 points since then with Neuer having picked the ball from the back of his net on just eight occasions and has kept the same number of clean sheets.
On 5 March 2008, in the first knockout round of the UEFA Champions League, Neuer performed a world-class display against FC Porto where he pulled off many crucial saves throughout the 120 minutes of regular time to force a penalty shoot-out.
And he capped his magical performance with two penalty saves as he denied spot-kicks from Bruno Alves and Lisandro López, emulating Lehmann when he starred in the UEFA Cup final against Inter Milan at the San Siro to lead Schalke to the title.
Neuer is a local boy, born and bred in Gelsenkirchen and he used to stand on the terraces and watch Lehmann play for his local team.
"I used to get there a long time before kick-off, because I wanted to watch Jens Lehmann warm up," Neuer recalls. "Lehmann has always been one of my role models."
Neuer appeared at every youth level for Schalke, before signing professional forms in 2005.
The coaching staff were rewarded in spades for their faith in the young lad, leaving Schalke general manager Andreas Müller to describe the custodian as "an exceptional talent."
Alongside lightning-quick reflexes and a commanding penalty-box presence, Neuer is no slouch with the ball at his feet. "He's the kind of keeper who gets involved. When he trains as an outfield player, you hardly notice the difference," Slomka observes.
He was one of only three Bundesliga players to play every single minute in the Bundesliga 2007/08 season. Neuer is also one of the two goalkeepers to get an assist - the others being René Adler of Leverkusen and Bayern's Michael Rensing.
Neuer has been a regular for the Germany U-21s since making his debut in a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on 15 August 2006.
He has rapidly become a crowd favourite as he was voted Schalke's Player of the Year in a vote organised by the official fan-club. "This award means a lot to me. To be chosen by the fans is always something special," he said.
Full name: Manuel Neuer
Date of birth: March 27, 1986
Birthplace: Gelsenkirchen, Germany
Nationality: German
Height: 1.92 m
Weight: 85 kg
Club: Schalke 04
Position: Goalkeeper
Number: 1
Honours:
German Bundesliga Goalkeeper of the Year (2007)
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Neuer won the starting position at Schalke 04 on November 2006, when coach Mirko Slomka sprang a monumental surprise in the run-up to a crunch home clash against Bayern Munich, dropping experienced first-choice keeper Frank Rost and installing Neuer in his place.
On 5 March 2008, in the first knockout round of the UEFA Champions League, Neuer performed a world-class display against FC Porto where he pulled off many crucial saves throughout the 120 minutes of regular time to force a penalty shoot-out.
And he capped his magical performance with two penalty saves as he denied spot-kicks from Bruno Alves and Lisandro López, emulating Lehmann when he starred in the UEFA Cup final against Inter Milan at the San Siro to lead Schalke to the title.
Neuer is a local boy, born and bred in Gelsenkirchen and he used to stand on the terraces and watch Lehmann play for his local team.
"I used to get there a long time before kick-off, because I wanted to watch Jens Lehmann warm up," Neuer recalls. "Lehmann has always been one of my role models."
The coaching staff were rewarded in spades for their faith in the young lad, leaving Schalke general manager Andreas Müller to describe the custodian as "an exceptional talent."
Alongside lightning-quick reflexes and a commanding penalty-box presence, Neuer is no slouch with the ball at his feet. "He's the kind of keeper who gets involved. When he trains as an outfield player, you hardly notice the difference," Slomka observes.
He was one of only three Bundesliga players to play every single minute in the Bundesliga 2007/08 season. Neuer is also one of the two goalkeepers to get an assist - the others being René Adler of Leverkusen and Bayern's Michael Rensing.
Neuer has been a regular for the Germany U-21s since making his debut in a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on 15 August 2006.
He has rapidly become a crowd favourite as he was voted Schalke's Player of the Year in a vote organised by the official fan-club. "This award means a lot to me. To be chosen by the fans is always something special," he said.
Full name: Manuel Neuer
Date of birth: March 27, 1986
Birthplace: Gelsenkirchen, Germany
Nationality: German
Height: 1.92 m
Weight: 85 kg
Club: Schalke 04
Position: Goalkeeper
Number: 1
Honours:
German Bundesliga Goalkeeper of the Year (2007)
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 Fabian Delph of Leeds United |
"Fabian is rangy like the young Stevie Gerrard and has a similar passing range, short and long. He also snaps you in the tackle like Gerrard"
Andy Robinson, Leeds United player
"He is someone we rate highly. A fantastic product of the Academy"
Gary McAllister, Leeds United manager
"Fab's got a lot of quality and he's probably been our best player this season"
Johnny Howson, Leeds United player
Built like an Ethiopian marathon runner, Fabian Delph has emerged as a key member in the resurrection of Leeds United.
He is dubbed as the most exciting prospect to come out of the youth system at Elland Road since Aaron Lennon in 2003.
After a string of impressive performances in Spring 2008, Delph was made captain of the Leeds reserves at the tender age of 17 and showed why manager Gary McAllister is convinced he will become a screen star in his own right.
The combative midfielder has boundless energy which he uses not just with the ball but without it, closing down at every opportunity and putting in tackles that belie his slender frame.
His pace was also seriously impressive as he can pass his marker from a standing start, then he settles in space and starts to play.
Born in Bradford, Delph started off his career as a trainee at Bradford City.
He made his debut at Leeds as a substitute against Derby County in the final match of the 2006/2007 season.
Last season, however, Delph only made two appearances for the Whites - at Portsmouth in the Carling Cup and at home to Gillingham in the final game of the League One campaign.
His splendid form this season has attracted the attention from a number of Premiership clubs, with Arsenal, Newcastle and Manchester United reported to be lining up great offers for the teenager.
Still, Delph decided to put pen to paper on a new four-year contract with the club in September 2008.
Full Name: Fabian Delph
Date of birth: November 21, 1989
Birthplace: Bradford, England
Nationality: English
Height: 1.74 m
Weight: 60 kg
Club: Leeds United
Position: Midfielder
Number: 15
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He is dubbed as the most exciting prospect to come out of the youth system at Elland Road since Aaron Lennon in 2003.
After a string of impressive performances in Spring 2008, Delph was made captain of the Leeds reserves at the tender age of 17 and showed why manager Gary McAllister is convinced he will become a screen star in his own right.
His pace was also seriously impressive as he can pass his marker from a standing start, then he settles in space and starts to play.
Born in Bradford, Delph started off his career as a trainee at Bradford City.
He made his debut at Leeds as a substitute against Derby County in the final match of the 2006/2007 season.
Last season, however, Delph only made two appearances for the Whites - at Portsmouth in the Carling Cup and at home to Gillingham in the final game of the League One campaign.
His splendid form this season has attracted the attention from a number of Premiership clubs, with Arsenal, Newcastle and Manchester United reported to be lining up great offers for the teenager.
Still, Delph decided to put pen to paper on a new four-year contract with the club in September 2008.
Full Name: Fabian Delph
Date of birth: November 21, 1989
Birthplace: Bradford, England
Nationality: English
Height: 1.74 m
Weight: 60 kg
Club: Leeds United
Position: Midfielder
Number: 15
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 Giovani dos Santos of Tottenham Hotspur |
"He is a young player who is demonstrating that he has great potential. He works well and he has an enormous future. He can become an important player for this club"
Thiago Motta, former Barcelona player
"Giovani dos Santos is a very good young person and I hope for him that he becomes a great player. He has much to learn and he has a positive attitude. I believe that that is the best thing in his favour"
Lilian Thuram, former Barcelona player
"A footballer of his quality makes all the difference in youth football. Very few players have what he has, and that's what sets Mexico apart from the rest"
Jorge Fossati, Uruguay national coach
Giovani dos Santos came to prominence in 2005 when he was one of stars of the Mexican National U-17 team that won the 2005 U-17 World Cup in Peru.
This left-footed player is confident in front of goal and stands out for his speed and dribbling skills.
Giovani comes from a footballing family as his father Gerardo dos Santos, better known as "Zizinho", was a professional player with Mexican outfits América and his brother, Jonathan, has also been with Barcelona.
His father is Brazilian and his mother, Liliana Ramírez, is Mexican.
Zizinho is seen as the driving force behind his son's career, as he ran football academies in Mexico and negotiated a trial for Giovani at Mexican side Club Monterrey.
The prodigy then plucked from his native country by the eagle eyed scouts from Barcelona's youth academy.
His progress through the youth ranks of the club saw him play with Infantil A (2002-03), Cadet B (2003-04), Cadet A (2004-05) and Juvenil A (2005-06).
In 2006, Giovani was invited on the pre-season tour of Barcelona's senior squad and scored on his first team debut during a friendly match against Danish club AGF Aarhus.
He made the definitive step up to the senior squad for the 2007/08 season at the age of 18, making 28 appearances and scoring three goals.
On the international stage, he inspires the Mexican team to victory at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2005, where he was chosen the second best player of the tournament, finishing behind only to Brazilian and Manchester United mildfielder Anderson.
He also represented Mexico in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2007, where his side were eliminated by Argentina in the quarterfinals. This time he was chosen as the third best player, behind Argentines Sergio Agüero and Maximiliano Moralez.
Giovani earned his first international caps for Mexico in a friendly match against Panama on September 9, 2007.
On 10 June 2008, the highly-rated forward completed his move to Tottenham Hotspur from Barcelona for an initial fee of £4.7 million, with the potential to rise to £8.6 million depending on appearances.
The deal also includes a sell-on clause of 20% within Giovani's first two years at Spurs, and 10% thereafter.
Full Name: Giovani Alex Dos Santos Ramírez
Date of birth: May 11, 1989
Birthplace: Monterrey, Nuevo León, México
Nationality: Mexican
2nd nationality: Spanish
Height: 1.75 m
Weight: 71 kg
Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Position: Attacking Midfielder/Forward
Number: 17
Honours:
FIFA U-17 World Cup (2005)
FIFA U-17 World Cup Silver Ball (2005)
FIFA U-20 World Cup Bronze Ball (2007)
Technorati tags: Mexico Tottenham Giovani dos Santos
This left-footed player is confident in front of goal and stands out for his speed and dribbling skills.
His father is Brazilian and his mother, Liliana Ramírez, is Mexican.
Zizinho is seen as the driving force behind his son's career, as he ran football academies in Mexico and negotiated a trial for Giovani at Mexican side Club Monterrey.
The prodigy then plucked from his native country by the eagle eyed scouts from Barcelona's youth academy.
His progress through the youth ranks of the club saw him play with Infantil A (2002-03), Cadet B (2003-04), Cadet A (2004-05) and Juvenil A (2005-06).
In 2006, Giovani was invited on the pre-season tour of Barcelona's senior squad and scored on his first team debut during a friendly match against Danish club AGF Aarhus.
On the international stage, he inspires the Mexican team to victory at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2005, where he was chosen the second best player of the tournament, finishing behind only to Brazilian and Manchester United mildfielder Anderson.
He also represented Mexico in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2007, where his side were eliminated by Argentina in the quarterfinals. This time he was chosen as the third best player, behind Argentines Sergio Agüero and Maximiliano Moralez.
Giovani earned his first international caps for Mexico in a friendly match against Panama on September 9, 2007.
On 10 June 2008, the highly-rated forward completed his move to Tottenham Hotspur from Barcelona for an initial fee of £4.7 million, with the potential to rise to £8.6 million depending on appearances.
The deal also includes a sell-on clause of 20% within Giovani's first two years at Spurs, and 10% thereafter.
Full Name: Giovani Alex Dos Santos Ramírez
Date of birth: May 11, 1989
Birthplace: Monterrey, Nuevo León, México
Nationality: Mexican
2nd nationality: Spanish
Height: 1.75 m
Weight: 71 kg
Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Position: Attacking Midfielder/Forward
Number: 17
Honours:
FIFA U-17 World Cup (2005)
FIFA U-17 World Cup Silver Ball (2005)
FIFA U-20 World Cup Bronze Ball (2007)
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 Ignacio Camacho of Atlético Madrid |
"I don't like to single out individuals for praise but Ignacio deserves it as he is a young man who had a good all-round game. He continues to make the step up from the juniors"
Javier Aguirre, Atlético coach
"He's got great vision, he keeps things simple and covers the whole middle of the park. He's a leader on and off the pitch"
Javier Garcia Marquez, Atlético youth coach
Burst on to the scene when started Atlético Madrid's clash with Barcelona in March, Ignacio 'Nacho' Camacho has been impressive with his creativity and passing range in midfield.
Camacho, admirer of Claude Makélélé and Michael Essien, boasted to be one of the best home-grown products to have emerged from the Vicente Calderón ranks in recent years.
The defensive midfielder is the first player from the youth system after Fernando Torres, who had such success with the national team & found a place in the team.
His main virtue is his physical strength, which helps him dominate the midfield from his usual anchor role, and despite his young age he is a natural leader on the pitch.
Camacho made his official debut with Los Rojiblancos in Copa del Rey against Granada 74 before Atlético boss Javier Aguirre handed him a La Liga debut against Barcelona on March 1, 2008 at Vicente Calderón, which he left the pitch showered by a large standing ovation.
That was followed by two goals against Recreativo at home and the qualification to the play-in round of the Champions League in only four months.
Still, his brightest year was in 2007, a year in which he signed his first professional contract and in which successes accompanied him.
He was proclaimed European champion and runner-up of the World the U-17 Spanish National team, where he was the captain of the team.
In addition, Camacho was awarded Best Player in 2007 by the Madrid Football Federation, receiving the award from its president, Vicente Temprado.
Off the pitch, he and fellow Atlético midfielder Raúl García, 22, are good friends as the older took him to his house when Camacho's parents weren't at home. Furthermore he drives him home, because the younger has no driving licence yet.
Camacho's father Juan José was a footballer with Real Zaragoza and Real Valladolid in the 1980s, as older brother Juanjo, who played for Segunda División B outfit SD Huesca.
Full name: Ignacio Camacho Barnola
Date of birth: May 4, 1990
Birthplace: Zaragoza, Spain
Nationality: Spanish
Height: 1.81 m
Weight: 75 kg
Club: Atletico Madrid
Position: Defensive midfielder
Number: 24
Honours:
UEFA U-17 European Championship (2007)
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Technorati tags: Spain Atletico Madrid Ignacio Camacho
Camacho, admirer of Claude Makélélé and Michael Essien, boasted to be one of the best home-grown products to have emerged from the Vicente Calderón ranks in recent years.
The defensive midfielder is the first player from the youth system after Fernando Torres, who had such success with the national team & found a place in the team.
His main virtue is his physical strength, which helps him dominate the midfield from his usual anchor role, and despite his young age he is a natural leader on the pitch.
That was followed by two goals against Recreativo at home and the qualification to the play-in round of the Champions League in only four months.
Still, his brightest year was in 2007, a year in which he signed his first professional contract and in which successes accompanied him.
He was proclaimed European champion and runner-up of the World the U-17 Spanish National team, where he was the captain of the team.
In addition, Camacho was awarded Best Player in 2007 by the Madrid Football Federation, receiving the award from its president, Vicente Temprado.
Off the pitch, he and fellow Atlético midfielder Raúl García, 22, are good friends as the older took him to his house when Camacho's parents weren't at home. Furthermore he drives him home, because the younger has no driving licence yet.
Camacho's father Juan José was a footballer with Real Zaragoza and Real Valladolid in the 1980s, as older brother Juanjo, who played for Segunda División B outfit SD Huesca.
Full name: Ignacio Camacho Barnola
Date of birth: May 4, 1990
Birthplace: Zaragoza, Spain
Nationality: Spanish
Height: 1.81 m
Weight: 75 kg
Club: Atletico Madrid
Position: Defensive midfielder
Number: 24
Honours:
UEFA U-17 European Championship (2007)
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 Krisztián Németh of Liverpool |
"He played very well for the reserves last season and scored quite a lot of goals. It is clear that he has the ability to score but he also has good game intelligence"
Rafa Benitez, Liverpool manager
"Nemeth reminds me of King Kenny"
Gary Ablett, Liverpool reserves coach
The Liverpool starlet is yet to make his senior debut for the Reds but already the hopes of a nation can be seen resting on Krisztián Németh's shoulders.
Two days after Hungary's defeat to Sweden in their World Cup qualifier earlier this year, Hungarian sports daily newspaper, Nemzeti Sport, headlined Németh, with an enormous picture of him and wrote that coach Erwin Koeman needs to play him.
The Hungarian prodigy is rated the most promising prospect to come out of Hungary in several years.
Németh - whose role model is Ferenc Puskás - arrived from MTK Hungária alongside compatriot András Simon in the summer of 2007.
He was one of many players bought during the 2007/08 summer transfer window, including Dani Pacheco, Gerardo Bruna, Dean Bouzanis, Daniel Ayala, Mikel San José, Marvin Pourie, Damien Plessis and Ryan Crowther for the reserves.
After signing a three-year deal, he made his debut for the Liverpool reserves against Manchester City on November 27, 2007, scoring a double in the first half.
Németh was the top scorer in Liverpool's title winning reserve side last season and was named Player of the Year for the reserves for his impressive displays in the second half of the season.
In May 2008, after scoring the crucial goal against Portugal to take Hungary U19s to the European Championships, he was called up to the Hungarian senior squad and was an unused substitute during their 1-1 draw with Croatia.
Németh has nonetheless impressed fans with his technical skill, great movement and natural goalscoring instinct.
He has been tipped for a bright future at the Merseyside club and is expected to make the step up to first-team football as Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez handed him the #29 jersey for the 2008-2009 campaign.
Full name: Krisztián Németh
Date of birth: May 18, 1990
Birthplace: Győr, Hungary
Nationality: Hungarian
Height: 1.78 m
Weight: 76 kg
Club: Liverpool
Position: Striker
Number: 29
Honours:
Premier Reserve League Northern (2008)
Liverpool Reserves Player of the Year (2008)
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Technorati tags: Hungary Liverpool Krisztián Némeths
Two days after Hungary's defeat to Sweden in their World Cup qualifier earlier this year, Hungarian sports daily newspaper, Nemzeti Sport, headlined Németh, with an enormous picture of him and wrote that coach Erwin Koeman needs to play him.
The Hungarian prodigy is rated the most promising prospect to come out of Hungary in several years.
Németh - whose role model is Ferenc Puskás - arrived from MTK Hungária alongside compatriot András Simon in the summer of 2007.
He was one of many players bought during the 2007/08 summer transfer window, including Dani Pacheco, Gerardo Bruna, Dean Bouzanis, Daniel Ayala, Mikel San José, Marvin Pourie, Damien Plessis and Ryan Crowther for the reserves.
Németh was the top scorer in Liverpool's title winning reserve side last season and was named Player of the Year for the reserves for his impressive displays in the second half of the season.
In May 2008, after scoring the crucial goal against Portugal to take Hungary U19s to the European Championships, he was called up to the Hungarian senior squad and was an unused substitute during their 1-1 draw with Croatia.
Németh has nonetheless impressed fans with his technical skill, great movement and natural goalscoring instinct.
He has been tipped for a bright future at the Merseyside club and is expected to make the step up to first-team football as Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez handed him the #29 jersey for the 2008-2009 campaign.
Full name: Krisztián Németh
Date of birth: May 18, 1990
Birthplace: Győr, Hungary
Nationality: Hungarian
Height: 1.78 m
Weight: 76 kg
Club: Liverpool
Position: Striker
Number: 29
Honours:
Premier Reserve League Northern (2008)
Liverpool Reserves Player of the Year (2008)
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 Toni Kroos of Bayern Munich |
"He is a passionate footballer with great instinct. He always takes the right decision on the pitch and you don't have to tell him what to do"
Miroslav Klose, Bayern Munich player
"Toni is a future international"
Ottmar Hitzfeld, Bayern Munich coach
"Toni definitely has an unbelievable talent, there's no doubt about it"
Heiko Herrlich, Germany U-17 coach
Toni Kroos is currently Germany’s most promising football talent. He is only eighteen years old but has already earned playing time in Bayern Munich’s senior squad.
He has made an astonishing start to his Bayern career, making his debut last season in the 5-0 victory over Energie Cottbus and instantly providing two assists for Miroslav Klose within 18 minutes of his appearance.
Kroos also earned Bayern a late victory at Red Star Belgrade on his UEFA Cup debut, coming on as a substitute for the last ten minutes and delivering an assist for Klose before scored the winning goal at extra time, which practically the last shot of the match.
Though, it wasn’t Bayern’s youth that developed his talent. Young Tony Kroos learnt his basics and improved his football skills from his father Roland Kroos, a youth coach at Hansa Rostock where he played from 2002 to 2006 after moving from local club Greifswalder SC.
After noticing his talents, Bayern then send a check of €100.000 to Rostock to sign this teenage sensation at the age of sixteen.
In the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup, he was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player and also won the Bronze Boot after scoring five goals.
At the same year, Kroos graduated to Bayern’s senior team, at the young age of 17, and made an important role in 2007 German DFB-Pokal campaign for his club.
Despite several interests from European clubs, Kroos silently extended his contract with the Bavarian side until June 2012.
Bayern's general manager Uli Hoeneß, who does not want the media spotlight on the prodigy, said: "He’s a young lad, and it makes no sense to hype him up into some kind of global superstar. We want him to focus on football, while we nurture him with extreme care."
Hoeneß has been confident about Kroos’ future and recently he proclaimed that in the future Kroos will play with the prestigious number 10 shirt at Bayern when he has more experience.
Full Name: Toni Kroos
Date of birth: January 04, 1990
Birthplace: Greifswald, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany
Nationality: German
Height: 1.80 m
Weight: 68 kg
Club: Bayern Munich
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Number: 39
Honours:
German Ligapokal (2007)
German DFB-Pokal (2007)
German Bundesliga (2008)
FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Ball (2007)
FIFA U-17 World Cup Bronze Shoe (2007)
Fritz-Walter-Medal in Gold - Category U18 (2008)
Technorati tags: Germany Bayern Munich Toni Kroos
He has made an astonishing start to his Bayern career, making his debut last season in the 5-0 victory over Energie Cottbus and instantly providing two assists for Miroslav Klose within 18 minutes of his appearance.
Kroos also earned Bayern a late victory at Red Star Belgrade on his UEFA Cup debut, coming on as a substitute for the last ten minutes and delivering an assist for Klose before scored the winning goal at extra time, which practically the last shot of the match.
Though, it wasn’t Bayern’s youth that developed his talent. Young Tony Kroos learnt his basics and improved his football skills from his father Roland Kroos, a youth coach at Hansa Rostock where he played from 2002 to 2006 after moving from local club Greifswalder SC.
After noticing his talents, Bayern then send a check of €100.000 to Rostock to sign this teenage sensation at the age of sixteen.
In the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup, he was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player and also won the Bronze Boot after scoring five goals.
At the same year, Kroos graduated to Bayern’s senior team, at the young age of 17, and made an important role in 2007 German DFB-Pokal campaign for his club.
Despite several interests from European clubs, Kroos silently extended his contract with the Bavarian side until June 2012.
Bayern's general manager Uli Hoeneß, who does not want the media spotlight on the prodigy, said: "He’s a young lad, and it makes no sense to hype him up into some kind of global superstar. We want him to focus on football, while we nurture him with extreme care."
Hoeneß has been confident about Kroos’ future and recently he proclaimed that in the future Kroos will play with the prestigious number 10 shirt at Bayern when he has more experience.
Full Name: Toni Kroos
Date of birth: January 04, 1990
Birthplace: Greifswald, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany
Nationality: German
Height: 1.80 m
Weight: 68 kg
Club: Bayern Munich
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Number: 39
Honours:
German Ligapokal (2007)
German DFB-Pokal (2007)
German Bundesliga (2008)
FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Ball (2007)
FIFA U-17 World Cup Bronze Shoe (2007)
Fritz-Walter-Medal in Gold - Category U18 (2008)
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Technorati tags: Germany Bayern Munich Toni Kroos
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