Discover Eredivisie’s top 5 wonderkids to watch this year. These rising stars are lighting up the league with incredible talent and promise.
Eredivisie’s Top 5 Wonderkids to Watch This Year
The Eredivisie has long been a breeding ground for world-class football talent. From Johan Cruyff and Dennis Bergkamp to more recent exports like Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt, the Dutch top flight continues to deliver exceptional young players ready for the world stage. In the 2025/26 season, a new crop of wonderkids has emerged—some already making waves, others on the cusp of stardom.
Here are the top 5 BP9 Eredivisie wonderkids you should be watching closely this season.
1. Mikail Güler – Ajax (Age 18)
Despite Ajax’s struggles in recent seasons, their youth academy remains a shining beacon in the league. One of their brightest prospects right now is Mikail Güler, a versatile attacking midfielder with sublime technique and an eye for the spectacular. Güler has been likened to Hakim Ziyech for his vision and flair, but his ability to track back and contribute defensively makes him even more complete.
In pre-season, he impressed with his ball progression, quick decision-making, and clever movement between the lines. As Ajax looks to rebuild its identity, players like Güler are key to the revival.
Key Attributes:
- Vision and passing accuracy
- Tactical intelligence
- Leadership despite his age
2. Tim van Beek – Feyenoord (Age 19)
Feyenoord’s resurgence has come with an increased focus on promoting local talent, and Tim van Beek is one of the most exciting prospects in the league. Operating as a deep-lying playmaker, van Beek has drawn comparisons to a young Toni Kroos for his ability to dictate tempo and deliver inch-perfect passes.
Already featuring regularly in Eredivisie matches and even making an appearance in European competition, van Beek is tipped to become a cornerstone of Feyenoord’s midfield for years to come.
Why He Stands Out:
- Exceptional passing range
- Game tempo control
- Composure under pressure
3. Ismael Ouattara – PSV Eindhoven (Age 18)
Born in Côte d’Ivoire and raised in Eindhoven, Ismael Ouattara is one of PSV’s latest academy gems. A lightning-fast winger with a knack for goals, Ouattara has taken the league by storm with his dynamic dribbling and fearless approach in one-on-one situations.
He already boasts several goal contributions this season and is proving to be a nightmare for defenders. What makes Ouattara special is not just his athleticism, but his understanding of positioning and timing.
Strengths:
- Acceleration and dribbling
- Off-the-ball movement
- Finishing from tight angles
4. Timo van Dijk – AZ Alkmaar (Age 17)
AZ Alkmaar continues to punch above its weight in developing youth, and 17-year-old Timo van Dijk is the latest in their pipeline of talent. A ball-playing center-back who reads the game like a veteran, van Dijk has already attracted attention from clubs in the Bundesliga and Ligue 1.
His composure in defense, paired with his passing ability, makes him an ideal modern defender. AZ’s system gives him the perfect platform to develop further, and many see him as the next big Dutch export in the defensive line.
Defensive Qualities:
- Anticipation and interception
- Long passing accuracy
- Aerial strength and awareness
5. Lucas Duarte – FC Utrecht (Age 18)
Lucas Duarte, the Brazilian-Dutch forward, is a revelation for FC Utrecht. With an eye for the spectacular and natural instincts in front of goal, Duarte brings samba flair to the Eredivisie. Whether he’s playing as a center-forward or cutting in from the left, his versatility and technical ability have made him a fan favorite.
Utrecht’s progressive style of football suits him perfectly, and this season may be his breakout campaign. Already scouted by several top European clubs, Duarte’s star is rising fast.
Offensive Edge:
- Flair and creativity
- Clinical finishing
- Confidence on the ball
Why Eredivisie Remains the League of Wonderkids
The Eredivisie stands apart from many other European leagues for its consistent faith in youth. Clubs like Ajax, PSV, Feyenoord, and AZ Alkmaar not only invest heavily in their academies but also provide regular first-team opportunities for teenagers. This culture of development has positioned the league as a critical stepping stone in the careers of Europe’s next superstars.
In fact, the Eredivisie has arguably done more for young talent than some of the top five leagues, providing both competitive match experience and a nurturing environment for growth. For scouts and fans alike, it remains a goldmine of potential.
How These Wonderkids Impact the League’s Global Appeal
With the football world increasingly obsessed with identifying the next Mbappé or Bellingham, the Eredivisie continues to be a major scouting hub. These wonderkids aren’t just shaping the future of their clubs—they’re elevating the global profile of the entire league.
Streaming platforms, fantasy football leagues, and youth-focused analytics have turned the spotlight onto leagues like the Eredivisie. With clubs willing to give teenagers a chance and nurture their talent responsibly, the league retains a unique identity that prioritizes long-term player development.
Final Thoughts
As the 2025/26 season unfolds, keep a close eye on these five wonderkids. Their stories are still being written, but all signs point to a future filled with international recognition, big-money moves, and perhaps even national team glory. Whether you’re a die-hard follower of Dutch football or a curious fan from abroad, these talents offer plenty of reason to tune in.
Support the Rise of Talent in the League
The excitement, the future, and the flair all lie in the hands (and feet) of these young players. Show your support for the league that continuously produces stars for the global stage. Dive into the matches, follow their journeys, and become part of the evolving story that makes this league one of the most dynamic in the world.
