Eli Junior Kroupi, Zaire-Emery and Gadou make Golden Boy final shortlist

Three French players have made the final 25-player shortlist for the 2026 Golden Boy award, which recognises the best young talent under the age of 21 playing in Europe.

The award, created by Italian newspaper Tuttosport, has seen its original 100-player shortlist reduced to 25 contenders, with Warren Zaire-Emery, Eli Junior Kroupi and Joane Gadou representing France.

Zaire-Emery nominated after another successful season

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery is among the leading French contenders after playing an important role in another successful campaign for the Parisian club.

The midfielder was part of the PSG squad that won both the UEFA Champions League and Ligue 1, further strengthening his reputation as one of France’s most promising young players.

His inclusion gives France a strong contender for the prestigious individual award.

Kroupi makes shortlist after record-breaking campaign

AFC Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi has also been named among the final 25 nominees following an impressive first season in the Premier League.

Kroupi excelled after moving to England from formative club FC Lorient and enjoyed a particularly productive campaign in front of goal.

No teenager scored more goals in their debut Premier League season than Kroupi did last term, underlining the impact he made after arriving in England.

Gadou included as wildcard

Borussia Dortmund defender Joane Gadou completes the French representation on the shortlist.

Gadou has been selected as one of five wildcard nominees for this year’s Golden Boy award, giving the young defender an opportunity to compete for one of European football’s most recognised individual prizes for emerging talent.

The final 25-player list now features the leading young players competing across Europe, with the winner set to succeed the previous Golden Boy recipient.