Two Croatians footballers make UEFA’s best 50 young stars  

31 July 2019 – Two Croatian players have been named on UEFA’s annual list of the best 50 young players in Europe. 

“Our correspondents picked out 50 young players who could be big news this season,” UEFA said in a statement on Tuesday.

UEFA.com’s team of reporters selected 50 of Europe’s rising stars for their annual 50 for the future list. This year two young players who have both tasted senior international football for Croatia have made the list. 

Midfielder Nikola Vlasic and versatile winger Josip Brekalo both feature among the 50 best. 

Vlasic has been impressive for this club CSKA Moscow and has featured regularly in Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic’s plans. 

“The son of a decathlete, the attacking midfielder has impressed in Russia, and his U21 performances have propelled him into Croatia’s first team,” UEFA said. 

Meanwhile, big things are expected in the future from 21-year-old Brekalo. 

This is what UEFA had to say: “A speedy left-sided winger with a killer shot, Brekalo scored regularly at youth levels and is increasingly featuring for Croatia’s senior side.”

Dinamo Zagreb’s Spanish U-21 international Dani Olmo also is on the list. 

“A skilful wide man with pace, Olmo left Barcelona at 16 for regular football in Croatia; scored Spain’s U21 EURO final winner this summer.”

You can check out the full list of players published yesterday here.