Sean Edmundson explores 5 individuals who are aptly described as the future of French football.
Geoffrey Kondogbia
22 year old Geoffrey Kondogbia is a dominating figure on the pitch. Standing at 6 foot 2, this formidable force currently plays for Monaco is often likened to Patrick Vieira. The midfielder can be backed with a Betfred bonus to join Liverpool over the summer as speculation mounts regarding his long term future and the powerful midfielder will really be able to help strengthen the reds midfield following the departure of Anfield legend Steven Gerrard.
Jean-Christophe Bahebeck
Paris Saint-Germain forward Jean-Christophe Bahebeck is as versatile on the pitch as it comes. Earlier this year English club Southampton were said to be eyeing up the 22 year old to bring him to the Premier League but PSG have now extended his contract to 2019. He looks set to have a promising future in the game as he continues to put in some impressive performances peppered with plenty of technical proficiency.
Paul Nardi
The only goalkeeper on our list is AS Monaco’s young Paul Nardi. The 20 year old keeper found himself thrust into first team football for French side AS Nancy as the team’s main senior keeper suffered a sudden loss in form. His impressive and speedy reactions inside the box have raised a number of approving eyebrows, all equally impressed with the youngster’s astounding athleticism.
Florian Thauvin
Currently French forward Florian Thauvin works his magic over at Ligue 1 club Olympique de Marseille. He is arguably right on the verge of breaking in to the big time but it does seem more often than not to be a bit of a struggle for the 22 year old. He has obvious great ability on the ball, and has enjoyed a number of well carved out performances, however more recently his pace and ability have somewhat eluded him. Hopefully with more confidence and drive he can once more attain the levels of potential greatness.
Georges-Kévin N’Koudou
Another rising star of Ligue 1 is French winger Georges-Kévin N’Koudou. The 20 year old has spent most of his youth career being handed around a number of clubs including EST Solitaire Paris and Paris Saint-Germain and kicked off his senior career in 2013 over at FC Nantes. He’s a particularly athletic presence and this coupled with his quick feet and startling pace he certainly instils a certain level of fear in the opposing defence. As his self-confidence improves then so will his game.
S.E.
