As Premier League clubs embark on global tours, the pre-season period offers a crucial window for emerging young players to impress. Several teenagers are being highlighted as potential breakout stars for the upcoming campaign, with some looking to fill gaps left by first-team players returning from the World Cup or by potential transfers.
Liverpool's 17-year-old winger Rio Ngumoha is among the talents generating significant buzz. Despite making only five Premier League starts last season, with most coming after February, Ngumoha has shown flashes of brilliance, including a memorable goal against Newcastle. His talent was further recognized with an England debut. With a potential vacancy on Liverpool's right wing due to Mohamed Salah's departure, and Ngumoha's preference for playing on the left, this could present a prime opportunity for the young player to establish himself.
Arsenal's Max Dowman, 16, is another highly-rated prospect. As the Premier League's youngest ever goalscorer, Dowman has been carefully managed by Mikel Arteta, featuring sparingly to protect him. However, with Bukayo Saka showing signs of fatigue towards the end of last season and potentially needing rest during the World Cup, Dowman could find himself with increased game time, especially if Arsenal face challenges in their search for attacking reinforcements.
Chelsea's Brazilian talent, Estevao, aged 19, has also shown glimpses of his potential. Despite a season hampered by injuries and a careful integration into English football under Enzo Maresca, Estevao scored a dramatic late winner against Liverpool and impressed in a victory over Barcelona. Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, known for developing young attacking players, Estevao is poised to potentially reach new heights in the 2026-27 season.
Manchester United has two young players who could see increased involvement. Defender Ayden Heaven, 19, made a move from Arsenal in February 2025 seeking first-team opportunities. While he has played 24 times for United, showing promise and earning starts, defensive absences due to player returns from the World Cup and injuries could see him climb the pecking order, particularly as the team juggles European competition and a busy schedule.
Fellow United youngster Shea Lacey, also 19, has been a standout in the academy and made his debut in December against Aston Villa. Despite a red card in his third appearance, Lacey has continued to impress in pre-season. With a perceived lack of natural wingers at Old Trafford, and with manager Michael Carrick reportedly keen to keep him with the first-team squad for the initial half of the campaign rather than loan him out, Lacey could find himself integrated into the senior setup.