Rising Stars to Watch at Euro 2025

As the anticipation builds for the Euro 2025 women’s football tournament, a new generation of talent is poised to make their mark on the European stage. Following in the footsteps of previous breakout stars like Germany’s Lena Oberdorf, who was named young player of the tournament at Euro 2022, this summer’s competition in Switzerland promises to showcase exciting young players from across the continent. With 16 nations competing, fans can expect to see emerging stars who could light up the tournament with their skill, determination, and flair.

BBC Sport has identified seven players under the age of 23 who are generating significant buzz and are expected to be key figures for their respective national teams. These athletes, representing a diverse range of countries and playing styles, offer a glimpse into the future of women’s international football.

Aggie Beever-Jones (England)

Age: 21 | Position: Forward | Club: Chelsea

England’s Aggie Beever-Jones is already making waves. The Chelsea forward recently captured headlines with a stunning 33-minute hat-trick against Portugal, demonstrating her potent goal-scoring ability in the absence of senior stars like Alessia Russo and Ella Toone. Praised by former England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley for her versatility, intelligent movement, and predatory instincts, Beever-Jones is a constant threat to opposition defenses. Her ability to play across various attacking positions and her knack for being in the right place at the right time make her a formidable asset. Having been Chelsea’s top scorer in the Women’s Super League last season and netting crucial goals in cup competitions, Beever-Jones is a player whose development is closely watched, and she is expected to be a significant attacking force for England at Euro 2025.

Carrie Jones (Wales)

Age: 21 | Position: Midfielder | Club: IFK Norrkoping

Wales is set to make history as they compete in their first major women’s tournament at Euro 2025, and Carrie Jones is a seasoned campaigner within the squad. Having debuted for Wales at just 15, Jones possesses a wealth of international experience. Her career has seen her play in the Women’s Super League for Manchester United, Leicester City, and Bristol City, before making a move to Swedish side IFK Norrkoping in 2024. A dynamic and versatile forward, Jones is equally comfortable on the left wing, in central midfield, or as a lone striker. Her exceptional work ethic and composure on the ball have long been lauded, with former international Gwennan Harries predicting a bright future for her. Jones’s ability to influence the game from multiple positions and her dedication to the team make her a pivotal player for Wales as they embark on this historic tournament.

Salma Paralluelo (Spain)

Age: 21 | Position: Midfielder | Club: Barcelona

Salma Paralluelo of Spain brings an already impressive resume to Euro 2025. A key member of the 2023 World Cup-winning squad, Paralluelo started in five of Spain’s seven matches and earned accolades as the young player of the tournament. Her achievement of holding world titles at U-17, U-20, and senior levels is a testament to her extraordinary talent. Domestically, she is a two-time Champions League winner with Barcelona and has consistently been recognized among the world’s best female footballers. Paralluelo’s unique background, having chosen football over athletics where she was a junior champion sprinter, imbues her with exceptional speed and dynamism. As a powerful winger with a potent left foot, she is a significant attacking threat for Spain, despite recent challenges with physical exhaustion and a knee issue impacting her playing time upon return.

Wieke Kaptein (Netherlands)

Age: 19 | Position: Midfielder | Club: Chelsea

At just 19, Dutch midfielder Wieke Kaptein has already experienced considerable success, winning multiple domestic titles with FC Twente and Chelsea. During the 2024-25 season, Kaptein became an integral part of Chelsea’s dominant squad, earning starts in crucial Champions League fixtures. Her work rate, defensive contribution, and composure on the ball have earned her widespread praise from manager Sonia Bompastor. Teammates describe her as a “unique player,” characterized by her calm demeanor and hard-working attitude. Kaptein, who made her Netherlands debut in April 2023 and became the youngest Dutch player to feature in a Women’s World Cup later that year, is a dynamic presence in midfield, typically operating on the right side of a midfield three.

Franziska Kett (Germany)

Age: 20 | Position: Defender | Club: Bayern Munich

Germany’s Franziska Kett is set to make her major tournament debut at Euro 2025, bringing a dynamic presence to the defensive line. The left-back, who debuted for Bayern Munich shortly before her 18th birthday, has progressed rapidly, featuring for the German champions in both domestic and European competitions. Recognized for her explosive style of play and dynamism, Kett was named in the team of the tournament at the 2023 Under-19 European Championships. She earned her senior debut for Germany in April 2025, with national team head coach Christian Wuck highlighting her potential to contribute significantly. Kett’s emergence represents a new wave of defensive talent for Germany, and her contributions could be vital for their success in Switzerland.

Sydney Schertenleib (Switzerland)

Age: 18 | Position: Midfielder | Club: Barcelona

Representing the host nation, 18-year-old Sydney Schertenleib is a name to watch for Switzerland at Euro 2025. Since her move to FC Barcelona last summer, she has rapidly become a first-team regular, impressing in both league and Champions League fixtures. While typically deployed as a left-sided midfielder or attacker for Barcelona, Swiss coach Pia Sundhage has utilized her versatility by playing her as a right-sided striker, where she has already scored two goals in her initial ten appearances for the national team. With the tournament being held on home soil, Schertenleib has a prime opportunity to make a significant impact and announce her arrival on the international stage.

Alice Sombath (France)

Age: 21 | Position: Defender | Club: Lyon

Alice Sombath is emerging as a key defender for France as they look to establish themselves at Euro 2025, especially with the notable absence of Wendie Renard from the squad. Sombath, who joined Olympique Lyonnais at 16, made her senior debut alongside club legend Renard. Described as a future star by former Lyon manager Joe Montemurro, she possesses the qualities of a top-tier defender. Comfortable at both right-back and centre-back, Sombath made her France debut in November and has since earned further caps, even starting ahead of Renard in crucial Champions League matches. Her blend of technical skill, defensive acumen, and potential makes her a vital asset for France as they aim for European glory.