2014 World Cup: The Top 10 Future Stars

We know all about the Pirlos and Ronaldos, but the spectacle that is the World Cup guarantees a new group of talented, young superstars will get their chance to shine.  

Here are 10 under-23 future stars to keep an eye on in Brazil.

10. Eder Balanta, CB - Colombia, Age: 21

Mario Yepes’ successor is close to taking over for good. River Plate’s Eder Balanta is the future vanguard of the Tricolor’s defense. His performance for the Argentine giants has spurred interest from clubs like Barcelona. At 21, Balanta shows an adept ability to read the play, and outsmart attacking forwards, rarely diving recklessly into challenges. Outstanding pace coupled with impressive leaping ability makes Balanta one of the most sought-after young defenders in the world.

9. Adnan Januzaj, Winger - Belgium, Age: 19

Belgium was the winner of the Januzaj sweepstakes, and though it may not enjoy immediate dividends from his decision, the Manchester United youngster promises to be a mainstay of both Red Devils squads for years to come. Given his performances for United this season, expect an impact moment from the teenager as a substitute.

8. Julian Draxler, CAM - Germany, Age: 20

Hailed by the Guardian as one of the 10 most promising players in Europe, Julian Draxler is the next star midfielder Germany seems to produce with ease. Described as ‘elegant and graceful, but equally explosive and full of pace’ by scouts, the 20-year-old could be Joachim Loew’s saving grace as Die Mannschaft deal with a number of injuries to its supremely talented midfield.

7. Raheem Sterling, Winger - England, Age: 19

If Roy Hodgson is listening to the folks back home the mandate is pretty clear: play the kids. That means employing the likes of Raheem Sterling, Ross Barkley and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in his starting lineup. Sterling has the best chance to start because he offers something England has failed to employ at the highest levels of international football for some time: unrivaled speed. Blinking is not recommended when Sterling is on the ball.

6. Ricardo Rodriguez, LB- Switzerland, Age: 21

The best left back you’ve never heard of is Ricardo Rodriguez. The Swiss defender is a hybrid fullback. Last season he chipped in five goals and nine assists for Wolfsburg, helping them win a spot in next year’s Europa League. His knack on the offensive end of the pitch doesn’t come at the expense of his defensive responsibilities. Swiss head coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is a big fan of the 21-year-old, and you will be too.

5. Son Heung-Min, CAM - South Korea, Age: 21

Chuncheon, famous for dak galbi, a delectable chicken based South Korean dish, is also the hometown of the next big thing in Asian soccer. He was one of the most sought-after players in the Bundesliga before Bayer Leverkusen signed Son from Hamburg. He didn’t miss a beat joining the Champions League squad, exhibiting breathtaking on the ball skill along with the versatility rarely seen in players of his age. On the flank, behind the forward or as the lone striker, Son can play anywhere and most importantly, do so exceedingly well.

4. Koke, CAM - Spain, Age: 22

On any other team, Koke would be a starter in Brazil. Spain boasts an even more impressive midfield arsenal than Germany, though a number of its stars are on the wrong side of their primes. Luckily for La Roja, Koke represents the next wave of world-beating talent. The engine for an Atletico Madrid side that nearly completed an incredible double, Koke combines Xavi’s passing prowess with Andres Iniesta’s attacking savvy. He’s a worthy replacement for those two legends.

3. Romelu Lukaku, FW - Belgium, Age: 21

An ankle injury suffered by Lukaku in Belgium’s final World Cup left Red Devils supporters holding their breath, but the early diagnosis indicates the 21-year-old will be ready to go in Brazil. We’re lucky for that. The Everton striker wowed opponents and fans alike with a stellar 2013/14 Premier League campaign. With Christian Benteke sidelined, Lukaku is the x-factor for the Belgians.

2. James Rodriguez, CAM - Colombia, Age: 22

Falcao will not be playing in Brazil, but his Monaco teammate will pick up the slack for Colombia. James has drawn comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo in the past and after watching him play in a variety of positions for the French big spenders, it’s quite easy to see why. Maybe the Ronaldo comparisons are a stretch, but there are shades of Colombian legend Carlo Valderrama in his game. 'El Nuevo Pibe’ was named the world’s 59th best footballer at the age of 20 by the Guardian and he’s only getting better.

1. Paul Pogba, CAM - France, Age: 21

Primed to be a star when he arrived at Manchester United at the age of 16, Paul Pogba has not disappointed. Few players in the game exhibit the range of abilities the French dynamo possesses. Comfortable on attack and defence, Pogba has drawn comparisons to Patrick Vieria by scouts, managers and his fellow players. Now leading the way for perennial scudetto winners Juventus, the consensus is confirmed. Pogba is the real deal.