List of all the Golden Boy award winners

Sports journalists present the award to Europe’s youngest player for his exemplary performance over the course of a calendar year (two halves to separate seasons).

One of football’s most prestigious awards, given to a player who has displayed one of the finest performances at a young age. The Golden Boy award is only given to players who are younger than the age of 21 and play in Europe’s top leagues. Many young players have contended for this recognised football prize over the years, and thanks to football, we will continue to see such young talents making an impression at such a young age.

The award was established in 2003 by the Italian newspaper Tuttosport, with sports journalists from all over Europe selecting the most promising young talent. Barcelona midfielder Pedri was nominated for the award last season. The 19-year-old midfielder had a breakout season in 2021-2022. Since then, he has been a hallmark player, starting every game under new manager Xavi.

This time around, we have witnessed the emergence of Bayern Munich, Dortmund and Barcelona player stars Jamal Musiala, Jude Bellingham, and Gavi. With their performances, these three have dominated the headlines in Europe. It remains to be seen who comes out on top.

We now take a look at all the Golden Boy winners

 2003 – Rafael van der Vaart (Ajax)

2004 – Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

2005 – Lionel Messi (Barcelona)

2006 – Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal)

2007 – Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid) 

2008 – Anderson (Manchester United) 

2009 – Alexander Pato (AC Milan)

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2010 – Mario Balotelli (AC Milan and Manchester City) 

2011 – Mario Gotze (Borussia Dortmund) 

2012 – Isco (Real Madrid)

2013 – Paul Pogba (Juventus)

2014 – Raheem Sterling (Liverpool) 

2015 – Anthony Martial (Monaco and Manchester United)

2016- Renato Sanches (Benfica and Bayern Munich)

2017- Kylian Mbappe (Monaco and PSG)

2018 – Matthis de Ligit (Ajax) 

2019 – Joao Felix (Benfica and Atletico Madrid)

2020 – Erling Haaland (Borussia Dortmund)

2021 – Pedri (Barcelona)

2022 – Gavi (Barcelona)

2023 – Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

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