López, Dumornay, Shaw lead best U21 women’s soccer players

Back in 2022 we looked at 21 of the best women’s players in the world age 21 or under, and USWNT star Trinity Rodman was No. 1. But there’s a problem this year: She’s no longer under the age requirement, and neither is Manchester City‘s Mary Fowler.

So, who is part of the next generation of top U21 stars? Many of this year’s crop have made their mark on the big stage already — such as at the 2023 World Cup or in the UEFA Women’s Champions League — but which players have done enough to land a place on ESPN’s list, what are their particular qualities, and how can they get even better?

With multiple teams and leagues around the world, you have to cast a wide net to find the best, so Emily Keogh examined and ranked the game’s youngest players with input from ESPN’s reporters in the Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Africa, Asia and Australia.

Why 21?

From an initial long list of 50 players, those who remain are the ones who best satisfied the main criteria: appearances at the highest level, consistent performance over a sustained period, and the potential to develop into a top-level footballer.

What type of research was undertaken?

A sounding board comprised of players, managers, journalists and fans was used before deciding on the final rankings. Personal preference also played a role.

Is there a reason attacking players dominate the list?

In general, forwards get more playing time at a younger age than, say, central defenders (like Ana María Guzmán) or goalkeepers (like Khiara Keating), who tend to need more time to develop tactical awareness, positioning and understanding of the game.

It speaks volumes about the array of attacking talent that players like Alyssa Thompson, Rosa Kafaji and Korbin Albert didn’t make the final cut. Some, such as Amanda Allen and Brooke Aspin, missed out on consideration due to long-term injuries.

Notes:

– Players included must be age 21 or under on March 1, 2025.
– Positions are: GK (goalkeeper), LB (left back), RB (right back), CB (center back), DM (defensive midfield), CM (central midfield), AM (attacking midfield), FW (forward), ST (striker).
– Stats, via FBref, correct as of March 14.