Soccer Prospect Discussion Thread V

[Ajacied]

Here’s my annual Eredivisie/the Netherlands top prospect list. Updated from last season.

Rating	Description	Examples
100	Generational talent. These players only pop up once every few years.	Messi, Cruijff, Beckenbauer
90	Superstar. Has the potential to be an elite player while playing for the elite teams out there.	Benzema, Rakitic, De Gea
80	Good talent. Can be a star player in one of the top leagues, but just comes up short for the elite teams.	Arnautovic, Cillessen, Shaqiri.
70	Decent talent. Can play for the lower sides in the top leagues.	Erik Pieters, Nathan Dyer, Ben Foster.
60	Average talent, but decent enough for the lower leagues.	Renato Tapia, Dany Hoesen, Jeroen Verhoeven.
50	Mediocre talent. Has the potential to play for the lower sides in the lower leagues.	Diederik Boer, Anco Janssen, Johan Kappelhof.

[TBODY] [/TBODY]

Grade	Description
A	Sure fire bet to reach potential. Player is in an ideal situation to grow. Smart, mature and isn’t to be distracted. Has no major history problems.
B	Very likely to reach his potential. But there are still a few things he needs to work on.
C	Likely to reach upside, but still has a long way to go. Has minor injury concerns or is not in an ideal situation to grow.
D	Unlikely to reach upside. Unlikely to grow and is not in a favorable situation. Could have major injury concerns. Immature. Distracted easily.
E	Impossible to reach upside.

[TBODY] [/TBODY]

1997 - GRADUATED
1) Frenkie de Jong CM – 94A – Barcelona/HOL
2) Abdelhak Nouri AM – 90E – Ajax/HOL*
3) Steven Bergwijn W - 84B – PSV/HOL
4) Kasper Dolberg ST – 87D – Ajax/DEN
5) David Neres W - 82B – Ajax/BRA
6) Donny van de Beek AM - 82B – Ajax/HOL
7) Edson Alvarez CB – 84C – Ajax/MEX
8) Arnaut Groeneveld LW – 82C – Bournemouth/HOL
9) Guus Til CM – 75A – Spartak Moscow/HOL
10) Michel Vlap AM – 74A - Anderlecht/HOL
11) Jerdy Schouten DM – 73A - Bologna/HOL
12) Sam Lammers ST – 78C - PSV/HOL
13) Noussair Mazraoui RB – 69B – Ajax/HOL
14) Philippe Sandler CB/WB – 70C – Manchester City/HOL
15) Pablo Rosario DM - 68A - PSV/HOL

HM: Vaclav Cerny (Utrecht), Alessio da Cruz (Ascoli Calcio), Laros Duarte (PSV), Hidde ter Avest (Udinese), Juninho Bacuna (Huddersfield Town), Matteo Casseira (Ajax), Mohamed El Hankouri (Groningen).

1998
1) Calvin Stengs W – 84B – AZ/HOL
2) Lisandro Martinez LB/CB/DM – 84B – Ajax/ARG
3) Timothy-Fosu Mensah D – 84C – Manchester United/HOL
4) Carel Eiting CM – 84D – Ajax/HOL
5) Javairo Dilrosun LW – 82C - Hertha BSC/HOL
6) Teun Koopmeiners DM – 74A – AZ/HOL
7) Ritsu Doan AM - 79C - Groningen/JAP
8) Rick van Drongelen CB – 74B – HSV/HOL
9) Justin Bijlow GK – 72B – Feyenoord/HOL
10) Kaj Sierhuis ST – 74C – Groningen/HOL
11) Dante Rigo CM - 75C - PSV/BEL
12) Ferdi Druijff ST - 74B - AZ/HOL
13) Azor Matusiwa DM – 74A – Groningen/HOL
14) Justin Hoogma CB - 71C - Utrecht/HOL
15) Rodney Kongolo DM – 70C – Heerenveen/HOL

HM: Jay-Roy Grot (Leeds United), Sherrel Floranus (Heerenveen), Jasper van der Werff (Red Bull Salzburg), Dani de Wit (Ajax), Gianni dos Santos (Sparta), Hassane Bandé (Ajax), Giovanni Troupee (Utrecht), Dennis Johnson (PEC Zwolle), Sherwin Seedorf (Bradford).

1999
1) Matthijs de Ligt CB – 96B – Juventus/HOL
2) Donyell Malen W/ST – 87B – PSV/HOL
3) Tahith Chong RW – 85C – Manchester United/HOL
4) Perr Schuurs CB – 84B – Ajax/HOL
5) Justin Kluivert LW – 83C – AS Roma/HOL
6) Cody Gakpo W/AM – 80B – PSV/HOL
7) Armando Obispo CB 82C – PSV/HOL
8) Joel Piroe ST – 83C – PSV/HOL
9) Noa Lang AM – 80C – Ajax/HOL
10) Bobby Adekanye RW – 80D – Lazio/HOL
11) Nick Venema ST - 78B - Utrecht/HOL
12) Owen Wijndal LB – 78B – AZ/HOL
13) Leandro Fernandes DM – 79C – Juventus/HOL
14) Ferdi Kadioglu AM – 74B – Fenerbache/HOL
15) Halil Dervisoglu W/AM – 76C – Brentford/HOL

HM: Luis Sinisterra (Feyenoord), Ole Romeny (NEC), Michal Sadilek (PSV), Jeovanni Dianganga (Standaard Luik), Emanuel Boateng (Lazio), Mitchell van Bergen (Heerenveen), Dylan Vente (Feyenoord), Deroy Duarte (Sparta), Jordan Teze (PSV), Nathangelo Markelo (Everton), Godfried Frimpong (Benfica), Anderson Lopéz (AS Monaco), Danilo Pereira (Ajax), Che Nunnely (Willem II), Maxmillliano Romero (PSV), Tyrell Malacia (Feyenoord).

2000
1) Juan Familia Castillo LM/LB - 83C – Chelsea/HOL
2) Orkün Kokcü AM - 83C - Feyenoord/HOL (TUR)
3) Sergino Dest LB/LM – 81C – Ajax/HOL (USA)
4) Kik Pierie LB/CB – 80C – Ajax/HOL
5) Nicolas Kühn ST – 83D – Ajax/GER
6) Kjell Scherper GK – 83D – Ajax/HOL
7) Ludovit Reis DM - 80C - Barcelona/HOL
8) Jeremie Frimpomg - 80C - RWB/RM - Manchester City/HOL
9) Victor Jensen AM – 80C - Ajax/DEN
10) Mitchell Bakker LB - 77C – PSG/HOL
11) Xavier Mbuyamba CB - 79C - Barcelona/HOL
12) Zakaria Aboukhal – W/AM – 79C – AZ/HOL
13) Achraf El Bouchataoui AM - 78C – Feyenoord/HOL
14) Lutsharel Geertruida CB – 74C – Feyenoord/HOL
15) Jasper Schendelaar GK – 74C – AZ/HOL

HM: Justen Kranthove (Leicester City), Jurgen Ekkelenkamp (Ajax), Peer Koopmeiners (AZ), Lucas Leverland (ADO), Gianni van de Pitte (NAC), Millen Baars (Manchester United), Dominik Kotarski (Ajax), Kees de Boer (Swansea), Elayin Tavsan (Sparta), Sydney van Hooijdonk (NAC).

2001
1) Joshua Zirkzee ST – 89B – Bayern München/HOL
2) Daishwan Redan ST – 86C – Hertha BSC/HOL
3) Myron Boadu ST – 85C – AZ/HOL
4) Manuel Pherai AM – 84C – Dortmund/HOL
5) Omar Rekik – CB – 82C – Hertha BSC/HOL
6) Sepp van de Berg – CB – 82B – Liverpool/HOL
7) Vicente Besuijen AM – 82C – Roma/HOL
8) Quinten Timber CM – 80C – Ajax/HOL
9) Liam van Gelderen CB – 80C – Ajax/HOL
10) Lassina Traoré ST – 80C – Ajax/BUR
11) Jurrien Timber RB – 79C – Ajax/HOL
12) Wouter Burger CM – 77C – Feyenoord/HOL
13) Enric Llansala – DM – 77C – Ajax/HOL (SPA)
14) Joey Koorevaar GK - 76C - Feyenoord/HOL
15) Marouan Azarkan AM – 77D – Feyenoord/HOL

HM: Crysencio Summerville (Feyenoord), Jip Moolenaar (Eintracht Frankfurt), Kenzo Goudmijn (AZ), Nigel Thomas (PSV), Yorbe Vertessen (PSV), Ramon Hendriks (Feyenoord), Cheick Toureé (Feyenoord), Tyro Nimmermeer (Lazio), Sydney van Hooijdonk Traore (NAC), Christopher Mamengi (Utrecht), Denilho Cleonise (Genoa), Thomas Buitink (Vitesse), Anouar El Mhassani (West Ham United), Jimmy Kaparos (Schalke), Daan Reiziger (Ajax), Splinter de Mooij (Feyenoord),

2002
1) Ryan Gravenberch CM – 90B Ajax/HOL
2) Mohammed Ihattaren W/AM – 90C – PSV/HOL
3) Brian Brobbey ST – 88D – Ajax/HOL
4) Kenneth Taylor CM – 83B – Ajax/HOL
5) Annas Salah-Eddine – LB – 84C – Ajax/HOL
6) Ian Maatsen LB/CB – 84C – Chelsea/HOL
7) Jayden Braaf ST 84C – Manchester City/HOL
8) Melayro Bogarde CB - 84C – Hoffenheim/HOL
9) Ki-Jana Hoever CB/RB – 83C – Liverpool/HOL
10) Dillon Hoogewerf ST - 83C – Manchester United/HOL
11) Noni Madueke – RW/AM – 83C – PSV/ENG
12) Jeremy Antonisse W/CAM- 83C - PSV/HOL
13) Jaymillo Pinas ST – 82C - Ajax/HOL
14) Sontje Hansen LW/ST – 82C – Ajax/HOL
15) Mohamed Taabouni AM – 81C – AZ/HOL

HM: Romano Postema (Groningen), Kian Slor (Groningen), Fode Fofana (PSV), Nerysho Kasanwirjo (Ajax), Naoufal Bannis (Feyenoord), Bjorn Hardley (Manchester United), Tein Troost (Feyenoord), Hossein Zamani (Utrecht), Dirk Proper (NEC).

2003
1) Naci Unuvar AM – 92C – Ajax/HOL
2) Xavi Simons CM – 90C – PSG/HOL
3) Kian Fitz-Jim CM – 89C – Ajax/HOL
4) Rio Hillen CB – 85C – Ajax/HOL
5) Noah Ohio ST - 86C – RB Leipzig/HOL
6) Devny Rensch CB – 85C – Ajax/HOL
7) Solomon Bonnah RB – 84C – RB Leipzig/HOL
8) Jenno Campagne CM - 84C - Ajax/HOL
9) Denzel Owusu CB – 84C – Feyenoord/HOL
10) Mohamed Sankoh ST – 81C – Stoke City/HOL
11) Mylian Jiminez CM – 81C – PSV/HOL
12) Christian Rasmussen RW 81C - Ajax/DEN
13) Fedde de Jong CM – 80C – AZ/HOL
14) Myron van Brederode – 80C – AZ/HOL
15) Julius Dirksen CB – 80C – Ajax/HOL

HM: Youri Regeer (Ajax), Mohamed Akharaz (Utrecht), Dani van den Heuvel (Ajax), Youri Baas (Ajax), Ar’jany Martha (Ajax).

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Top 15 Dutch prospects:
*Matthijs de Ligt, Frenkie de Jong and Steven Bergwijn graduated with all having played two full pro seasons.

Abdelhak Nouri tribute - one of a kind.
An Iniesta/van der Vaart hybrid.

A real #10 and a real phenom. The most anticipated product to come out of the academy in decades, Nouri won tons of personal accolades since the U12, with the MVP of the Jupiler League, the Dutch second division, as his most recent hardware. There he formed a midfield with van de Beek and Frenkie de Jong and was deemed a much greater talent than both at the time. His technical skills are unheard of. He uses his technique rapidly, effectively and is always in control. He can do mesmerizing things with the ball. His acceleration, two footedness and agility makes him hard to defend and he plays out of pressured or crowded situations without breaking a sweat due to his street skills. He turns and moves around so quickly. A ridiculous touch in his feet, Nouri dishes out the most incredible and creative assists and is always a threat with dangerous through balls. Accurate shot, too. Nouri doesn't waste many opportunities or shoot lose cannons. Personally, the most jaw dropping, entertaining player I have ever come across, not named Ronaldinho.

Nouri always was #1 on my rankings and always hovered around a 90-92. In terms of skills with the ball, Nouri could've been even higher, but his lack of defensive work and weak physical attributes (1.70 and 65KG) would require you to play with a real DM or two CM's beside him. Mentally, Nouri was excellent. Mature, realistic, but very ambitious.

Abdelhak Nouri collapsed during a preseason match with Ajax in 2017. He's been in a coma ever since.

1) Naci Unuvar - AM - 92C - Ajax/HOL
Best offensive talent out of the Ajax academy since Appie Nouri.
Football talent scout review: Naci Ünüvar (10/10 potential: world class)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzkQwsjpy2I
Style comparison: A Pirlo/Sneijder hybrid
Maxed potential: Best/top 3 CAM

Pro’s:
- Outstanding dribbler
- Creates space for his teammates
- First touch is excellent.
- Quick, agile, light footed.
- Outstanding vision; reads plays well.
- His through ball is insane.
- Above average shot; more touch than power.
- Creative, technical – joy to watch.
- Very smart player; high football IQ; has continuously played vs boys 2 to 4 years older.

Cons:
- Short in size, though at 16 should still grow and beef up more.
- Can be a bit to enthusiastic.
- Defensively there’s still a lot of room to grow. He saves his energy when his team doesn’t have possession.
- Plays with a lot of risk in his game; prone to turnovers.
- Very hyped. You can tell people within the Ajax community want him to replace Nouri.

2) Ryan Gravenberch – CM – 90B – Ajax/HOL
The player you build your team around.
Football talent scout review: Ryan Gravenberch (10/10 potential: world class)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4ynoBAr-O8&t=55s
Style comparison: Paul Pogba
Maxed potential: Top 5 CM

Pro’s:
- Tall, physical, albeit still lanky, midfielder; uses his size and reach very well.
- Creative; quality playmaker, which is his main strength.
- Speedy for his size.
- Calm; knows when to speed things up or slow things down. No nerves.
- Defensively strong.
- Powerful player; hard nosed in battles, hard shot, but also shows finesse in his playmaking and technique.
- Versatile; can play at all three midfield positions (DM, CM, AM or even wide).
- Leadership. Very talkative during his youth team days.

Cons:
- Can be prone to making unnecessary fouls at unnecessary moments.
- Rather wild shot. Should be more precise with his chances. I’ve head his teammates yell: “go get it yourself!” – whenever he was about to shoot from outside the box during practice.
- His versatility can actually hurt his development. Doesn’t appear to have picked a primary position yet, or better said his coaches. Even played parts as a striker during earlier youth matches.

3) Xavi Simons - CM - 90C - PSG/HOL
Can he live up to the hype?
www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJ8BroO4MqM&t=1s
Style comparison: A mix between Luka Modric and Edgar Davids
Maxed potential: Top 5 CM

Pro’s:
- Fast, with or without the ball. First touch is top notch.
- Thinks very quickly.
- Finds openings rather effortlessly.
- Outstanding through ball.
- Creates space and opportunities for his teammates
- Works hard, defends well; passionate.
- A real director on the pitch; directs the tempo of the match.
- High football IQ
- A vocal leader

Cons:
- Should shoot more often. He can be too generous with his passing.
- Size, much like Unuvar, is rather short, but he might still grow, nor does it affect players with his IQ much.
- Can be too fancy. I think he can be even more effective with his playmaking.
- Is hyped a lot. Has to deal with a lot of pressure.

4) Mohammed Ihattaren - CAM – 90C – PSV/HOL
Yet another talented Dutch- Moroccan, but this one is the best one yet.
Football talent scout review: Mohammed Ihattaren (10/10 potential: world class)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_us2pIsU-o&t=243s
Style comparison: Nabil Fekir
Maxed potential: Top 10 CAM

Pro’s:
- Very all-round. Really has it all. Strong body, technique, pace, power, finesse.
- He’s a dribbling midfielder, but can also direct play and score himself.
- Has the technical ability and pace to pass his opponents, which he likes to do. Is a real creator out there.
- Very strong. Big legs, good frame and still growing. Should reach 1.87m.
- Hard to knock off the ball. Wins most of his battles.
- Can be useful as the link up guy and hold balls or as the playmaker behind the striker such as an enganche or function as a trequerista like Kaka.
- Lots of finesse in his passing and shot.
- Plays with a lot of passion. He’s a proud kid.

Cons:
- Can hold onto the ball too long. He dribbles with the ball where he should’ve went for the pass. His decision making needs work.
- Still has to learn how to direct the tempo of the match.
- Should use his pace more. Has the tendency to create or pass his opponents while standing still and that’s not always very efficient.
- Right foot needs work. He wants to do too much with his left, making him a bit predictable.
- Can find himself all over the place positionally.
- Ball control and first touch is good, but not consistent. Balls still bounce from his feet from time to time.
- Should be more noticeable on the scoresheet for such a dominating talent.

5) Kian Fitz Jim - CM – 89C – Ajax/HOL
Xavi Simons without the hype.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=EddDTJg5lnQ
Style comparison: Xavi Hernandez
Maxed potential: Top 10 CM

Pro’s
- A modern day #6. Likes to have the ball in his feet and start attacks from deep on his own half. A real director of play.
- Fitz Jim plays with that Virgil van Dijk swagger; just in total control, never panics.
- A true creative playmaker; he dribbles his way into free space effortlessly in order to set up his teammates.
- Strong with both feet.
- High work rate.
- Great touch. Master of the through ball. Especially high ones; his trademark.
- Has that extra gear. Starts out slow, dribbling, thinking and then he just takes off once he sees an opening.

Cons:
- Smart defensively, but is still overpowered at times.
- His body frame should fill out more; right now he’s quite skinny.
- His shot is average. Lacks power.
- He has so many traits that he will likely play multiple positions these next few years. He’s already played all midfield positions and winger. Hopefully he can focus solely on the #6.

6) Joshua Zirkzee – ST – 89B – Bayern München/HOL
A new breed striker.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mqfWSmO7qg&t=217s
Style comparison: A bigger, more technical Ruud Gullit (has some Zlatan traits as well)
Maxed potential: Top 5 striker

Pro’s
- There isn't a fitting striker role for him. He's a new breed.
- Fast, tall (1.93m) and powerful striker.
- Technically gifted.
- Hard, accurate shot. Zirkzee is deadly in the box.
- Thinks and moves around quickly and is an outstanding dribbler for his size.
- Is calm and has patience in pressured or crowded situations.
- Strong body makes him a great hold up guy, but has the agility and pace to create himself
- His vision and strength would make him work at CAM or even CM as well; much like Ruud Gullit.
- Outstanding with his head.
- Has scored his fair share of free kicks.

Cons
- Rarely uses his left foot.
- Wants to be involved too much at times. Trying to pick up balls way out of position.
- Can be too fancy, often leading to turnovers.

7) Brian Brobbey – ST – 88D – Ajax/HOL
A gorilla on roids.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCuEhVGAnG0
Style comparison: Romelu Lukaku
Maxed potential: Top 10 striker

Pro’s:
- Ridiculously strong (club even forbids him to work with weights now); imposing forward.
- Likes to play with his back towards the goal, hold the ball and wait for his teammates to position themselves, or turn and shoot himself.
- Underrated speed for a man his size, especially when at full speed.
- Powerful shot and a strong, fearless header.
- Deadly in the box. Knows where to be at the right time.
- Even played winger before, and while his main assets were wasted there, he better understands when and where to anticipate on crosses.

Cons:
- Not much of a playmaker.
- No finesse.
- A deep lying striker; not that useful without the ball.
- Is a volume shooter, but not always very accurate.
- Needs to surround himself with playmakers and crossing wingers to be most effective.
- His physical head start will level out once he reaches Ajax I. Will be interesting to see how he holds up, but the D-grade is understandable.

8) Dashaiwn Redan – ST – 86C – Hertha BSC/HOL
UEFA youth league, Oranje U19 and Chelsea's U23 top scorer, who learned his football with Ajax and Chelsea.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uO6T60g7Jo
Style comparison: Anthony Martial
Maxed potential: Top 15 striker

Pro’s:
- Complete striker. Strong with both feet, okay with his head, can be a poacher or create opportunities himself.
- Times his runs without the ball perfectly – always gets his fair share of chances.
- Has the speed, guts and technique to be an effective winger, too.
- Lateral speed, turns quickly, making him hard to guard even with his back towards the goal.
- Scores easily. Doesn’t need a whole lot of time or space. Lethal in the box.

Cons:
- His final delivery often lacks accuracy.
- Can be very nonchalant as the game goes on; overconfident with his trickery or shot.
- Should improve his heading. He can waste some perfect heading opportunities.
- Weak left foot.
- Can be very negative towards his teammates when things aren’t going well.
- Not all that tall; around 1.73m and below 70KG..


9) Donyell Malen – W/ST – 86B – PSV/HOL
Oranje’s new striker, who learned his football with Arsenal and Ajax.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6oKjcDX4D4
Style comparison: Raheem Sterling
Maxed potential: Top 15 striker

Pro’s:
- Very fast, agile and light footed winger.
- Uses his acceleration to surprise his opponents.
- Trickery and efficient technique.
- Good goal instincts in the box.
- Good first touch and ball control at full speed.
- Has good vision and a good cross.
- Strong for his size (1.79m).

Cons:
- Just turned striker. Jury is still out on his efficiency there.
- When he’s not starting out decent, he tries too overcompensate.
- Used to be a bit of an ego and ball hog, but this has improved already. His vision is great, but he still wants to do too much by himself at times.
- Doesn’t win many aerial battles.
- Can do more of the dirty work.

10) Myron Boadu – ST – 85C – AZ/HOL
AZ’s jewel might become the youngest top scorer in Eredivisie history.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgUznfve0VE
Style comparison: Patrick Kluivert
Maxed potential: Top 15 striker

Pro’s:
- Uses his body well. Hard to take away the ball from him.
- Good pace and technique.
- A threat at all three forward positions.
- Strong with both feet, making him clinical in the box.
- Creative in the crowded areas.

Cons:
- Average size (1.81m and 70KG). Should fill out more as he is still only 18.
- Shot lacks power still.
- Inconsistent because he has yet to identify himself with the proper striker role. I’d like him as an advanced forward myself.
- Broke his ankle last season. That usually remains a weak point for one’s career.

11) Immanuel Pherai – AM – 84C – Borussia Dortmund/HOL
Knocking on the door at Borussia Dortmund. Oranje is dying for a player like him.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=stXxaxSPdOk
Style comparison: Ibrahim Afellay
Maxed potential: Top 15 AM

Pro’s:
- Excellent playmaker. His vision is great.
- Likes to dribble and create himself.
- Has great (first) touch.
- More finesse than power.
- Creative; Pherai sees openings and space before anyone else on the pitch.
- Plays very deep for an CAM. Finds himself on the scoresheet quite often.
- Great (long distance) shot. Is the free kick specialist for some of the teams he has played for, including Oranje U18.

Cons:
- Can be too enthusiastic during his dribbles; prone to turnovers that way.
- A wild, lose canon at times. His plans out there aren’t always realistic.
- Ball control is good, but at full speed it needs practice.
- Not the biggest one out there. My guess is 1.75m and below 70KG.

12) Calvin Stengs – RW/AM – 84B – AZ/HOL
Oranje’s future winger
www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAEdXdQHBNg&t=35s
Style comparison: Coutinho
Maxed potential: Top 15 winger.

Pro’s:
- Very light footed.
- Great acceleration and top speed.
- Efficient finisher.
- Can create something out of nothing; is a constant threat when on.
- His technical ability makes him great in the smaller areas of the pitch.
- Versatile. Can be used on the wings or as the #10.
- Excellent vision. Frequently sets up teammates with nice through balls.
- Likes to cut inside and use his trickery to create chances himself. Not the typical backline-crossing-winger, though he still gets his fair share of assists that way.

Cons:
- Still very inconsistent.
- Good size (1.87m) but lanky. Not the strongest player in battles.
- Only uses his left foot, making him a bit predictable.
- Ball control and first touch is inconsistent.
- Already a bit injury prone this early in his career.

13) Perr Schuurs – CB – 84B – Ajax/HOL
A CB with the total package, slowly reaching his potential
www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oLTnXGlaYo
Style comparison: Rafael Varane
Maxed potential: Top 15 CB

Pro’s
- Ideal size for a CB (1.93m and 90KG).
- Perr is calm in all situations.
- Very disciplined.
- Great in personal battles.
- Excellent header.
- Excellent long ball.
- Has gotten noticeable faster this past year.
- Times his interceptions extremely well. A good tackler.
- As most Dutch defenders, Perr is good with the ball. Has the confidence to dribble out of pressured situations.
- A leader. Captained Fortuna to the Eredivisie at just 17 years old.
- Had a wicked shot while playing for Fortuna, even scoring on free kicks. Has a different role with Ajax, but his shot should still be there.

Cons:
- Still prone to turnovers or weak moments. Needs to be more consistent.
- His breakout pass is outstanding, but he is sometimes afraid to use it. He should take that risk more often.
- Can be too nonchalant at times.
- Positional game during zone defense needs work.
- As most Dutch defenders, Perr is still a bit soft. I’d like him to be a bit more tough and intimidating.

14) Tahith Chong – RW – 85C – Manchester United/HOL
An amazing blend of speed and technique
Football talent scout review: Tahith Chong (9/10 potential: key player)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1cSSD7Aydg
Style comparison: Ousmane Dembele
Maxed potential: Top 15 winger

Pro’s:
- Lots of speed; especially his first steps.
- Outstanding technique and plays with a lot of flair; uses it effectively.
- Runs all the time and passes his man easily. Trickery and agility makes him hard to defend.
- Defends and willing to do the dirty work.
- Reads the game well and, even at top speed, has the touch to play outstanding through balls.
- Cuts inside a lot, not the typical backline-crossing-winger.
- Sometimes wild, but his shot is lethal. Has been a free kick specialist for Feyenoord and United youth squads.

Cons:
- Sometimes goes on runs without a plan – like a headless chicken.
- Prone to turnovers.
- Very lanky and a light weight. I think the primary reason he hasn’t made more minutes for United yet, as he has the raw talent to compete with the likes of Martial and Rashford already.
- Often wanting to do too much. Picking up balls at midfield or suddenly finding himself defending on the other side. Needs to have a coach to put him on a short leash. Mourinho would’ve been a good one if he were to be a more youth orientated coach.

15) Kenneth Taylor – CM – 83B – Ajax/HOL
Ajax’ future captain
Football talent scout review: Kenneth Taylor (9/10)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAMOXLjFU2Y
Style comparison: Adrien Rabiot
Maxed potential: Top 20 CM

Pro’s:
- A playmaker at the #8 or #6; Taylor is a regista with a high football IQ.
- Smart, mature kid. Very likely to reach his upside.
- Very efficient. Rarely loses balls.
- Really directs the tempo of the game.
- Outstanding (long) pass and through ball.
- Covers a lot of ground. Understands all 3 midfield positions.
- Does a lot of work defensively.
- Smart finisher.
- Strong with both feet.
- Excellent shot and free kick specialist for Ajax U17.
- A leader in every way. Organizes the team on and off the ball.

Cons:
- Not overly fast, but moves around quickly.
- Should be more noticeable on the scoresheet for such a ball hog.
- Needs to focus on one midfield role. I think he would be best in the #6 regista role, rather than the #8 he’s played a few times recently.

 

[Vasilevskiy]

Super work, thanks!

 

[robertmac43]

@Ajacied amazing stuff as always! Do you have a blog or something like that, it's fun reading your more information packed posts

 

[Ajacied]

@Ajacied amazing stuff as always! Do you have a blog or something like that, it's fun reading your more information packed posts

No, I don't. I used to co-write these pieces for a football website, but the common fan wasn't as interested apparently. Now I just write these as a hobby and discuss them with friends. I try to follow and attend a few of the prestigious youth tournaments as much as I can or just spend a Sunday at De Toekomst, Ajax' youth academy, where all youth teams play their games and where the Ajax men squad practices.

 

[robertmac43]

No, I don't. I used to co-write these pieces for a football website, but the common fan wasn't as interested apparently. Now I just write these as a hobby and discuss them with friends. I try to follow and attend a few of the prestigious youth tournaments as much as I can or just spend a Sunday at De Toekomst, Ajax' youth academy, where all youth teams play their games and where the Ajax men squad practices.

That's awesome keep it up. Do you do a mid season update on these guys? If not I feel like you should.

Also random question but how did you end up on HF from Amsterdam?

 

[Ajacied]

That's awesome keep it up. Do you do a mid season update on these guys? If not I feel like you should.

I don't, but this document is alive all season, so I might change or add a few things/talents. I usually try to update each summer dating all the way back to 2004.

Also random question but how did you end up on HF from Amsterdam?

Been around these boards for ages. Hockey isn't very popular in the Netherlands, so I tried to get my info and stuff online. Somehow it led me to this place. The interest in hockey has been a bit lower these past few years, but I still try to watch every Dallas Stars game I can.

 

[Duchene2MacKinnon]

I don't, but this document is alive all season, so I might change or add a few things/talents. I usually try to update each summer dating all the way back to 2004.


Been around these boards for ages. Hockey isn't very popular in the Netherlands, so I tried to get my info and stuff online. Somehow it led me to this place. The interest in hockey has been a bit lower these past few years, but I still try to watch every Dallas Stars game I can.

A reoccurring theme here. I wonder if anyone who posts on soccer forum regularly still watches hockey. Also you suck for not having Martinez at 100A.

 

[robertmac43]

A reoccurring theme here. I wonder if anyone who posts on soccer forum regularly still watches hockey. Also you suck for not having Martinez at 100A.

I watch most Leafs games and have season tickets to the Junior team in town. I just find the hockey talk on this page is wildly out of control most of the time so I essentially use HF for soccer talk.

 

[robertmac43]

Been around these boards for ages. Hockey isn't very popular in the Netherlands, so I tried to get my info and stuff online. Somehow it led me to this place. The interest in hockey has been a bit lower these past few years, but I still try to watch every Dallas Stars game I can.

Well that explains why the interest is low . I'm guessing the time change is not the most helpful.

 

[Cassano]

A reoccurring theme here. I wonder if anyone who posts on soccer forum regularly still watches hockey. Also you suck for not having Martinez at 100A.

nope haven't seen a full game in 3 seasons now.

 

[phisherman]

@Ajacied Thanks for updating the list. Going to update my FM database now.

Just need @Evilo, @Pavel Buchnevich, @John Pedro , @Duchene2MacKinnon, @Juni and @cgf to do their lists like in the past and it will be good times again.

 

[Pavel Buchnevich]

@Ajacied Thanks for updating the list. Going to update my FM database now.

Just need @Evilo, @Pavel Buchnevich, @John Pedro , @Duchene2MacKinnon, @Juni and @cgf to do their lists like in the past and it will be good times again.

I made the yearly list of American prospects. Page 9 of this thread. It’s only from two months ago.

A reoccurring theme here. I wonder if anyone who posts on soccer forum regularly still watches hockey. Also you suck for not having Martinez at 100A.

I regularly watch hockey.

 

[YNWA14]

I also used to make a Dutch list, and generally talk with Ajacied privately about them beforehand. Alas, two kids and a lot going on so I don't really have as much time on my hands as I'd like.

A few things I'd note...I like Ihattaren a lot; I might even put him above Gravenberch. I like Gakpo more than Stengs. I don't think Simons is even a top 10 Dutch talent after having seen him more. I really like Taylor but he's a much more 'under the radar' type player who makes everyone around him better without shining too much on his own. Unuvar is amazing and I just hope the hype and early success doesn't go to his head or affect his development. Maatsen and Rensch really impressed me in the u17 tournament as well as Salah-Eddine but Maatsen especially stood out among his peers.

I'll probably add more later, but great work.

 

[Ajacied]

I like Ihattaren a lot; I might even put him above Gravenberch.

They might switch places a few times these next few years. Very close. I just like Gravenberch's rare attributes a little more and I trust Ajax and Ten Hag a fair chunk more when it comes to developing talent, rather than van Bommel and PSV. High end Dutch-Moroccan talents usually miss the ultimate focus and drive to really fulfill their potential (Bakkali, Aissati, Labyad, Bouy, Amrabat. Even Afellay to some extent). I don't have that with Ihattaren, but it's still in the back of my mind a bit.

I like Gakpo more than Stengs.

No. Stengs is a fair bit better than Gakpo, who has his limitations. Gakpo might be a bit stronger and might have a better shot, but Stengs is much more talented in each and every way: better playmaker, better finisher, better creator, faster. I think the 80 for Gakpo might be a bit too generous, while the 84 for Stengs is more than justified. He lost an entire year of development with the season ending injury last year. AZ would have lost him to the bigger European already sides if he hadn't. He is already too expensive for Ajax or PSV.

I don't think Simons is even a top 10 Dutch talent after having seen him more.

I have the exact opposite. The more I see him, the more I realize what a great talent he is. I ignore the hype and expectations. I do feel he's coming off a rough year. Maybe the Barca contract negotiations, hassle with Raiola, and the outlook of leaving his home, family and friends for a foreign adventure distracted him a bit. A massive leap for any 16 year old. Didn't make the step from the U16 to the U17 for Oranje this year as a result, which is why everyone is not buying the hype anymore, but I disagree. The U17 and especially it's midfield is one of the most talented positions in the Oranje youth ranks. Simons also plays the furthest away from home and frequently misses Oranje camps, practices and exhibition matches.

But again, this is close as well. Gravenberch, Ihatarren, Fitz-Jim and Simons are in a group of their own. They might switch places on this list a lot over the years, but Simons shouldn't be placed lower than 5th IMO, even though Zirkzee is a freak at #6.

I really like Taylor but he's a much more 'under the radar' type player who makes everyone around him better without shining too much on his own.

I think you are underrating him a bit, though I definitely see what you mean. He is more of a quiet, smart type of player, but his leadership, vision and two-footedness make him a standout in most of the games I've seen him play in. As if he's a step ahead of most of the players on the pitch. He plays such a mature game that I wouldn't be surprised to see him make his debut in a Cup game this year. Though there are lots of candidates with Ajax II deserving of that.

Unuvar is amazing and I just hope the hype and early success doesn't go to his head or affect his development.

Yeah, though he seems very down to earth. I think he'll cope with the pressure well, but we'll see. I think he'll go the Gravenberch-route: make his debut next season, but play most of his games for Ajax II. Then could very well make serious noise in 2021-2022.

Maatsen and Rensch really impressed me in the u17 tournament as well as Salah-Eddine but Maatsen especially stood out among his peers.

After Taylor it's all really close. I'd probably rank the 16-25 as followed:

16) Annas Salah-Eddine (LB - Ajax)
17) Ian Maatsen (WB/CB - Chelsea)
18) Rio Hillen (LCB - Ajax)
19) Devny Rensch (RCB - Ajax)
20) Noah Ohio (ST - RB Leipzig)
21) Solomon Bonnah (LB - RB Leipzig)
22) Jayden Braaf (ST - Manchester City)
23) Juan Familia Castillo (LB/LM - Chelsea)
24) Melayro Bogarde (CB - Hoffenheim)
25) Orkun Kökcü (AM - Feyenoord)

All in all, Oranje looks fine. The ' 97, '98 and '99 generations is a bit lacking and has/had its question marks. Hence the difference in quality throughout Oranjes line up and lack of youth and offensive depth. Injury problems (Nouri, Stengs, Eiting, Fosu-Mensah, Dilrosun), poor choices (Kluivert, Fernandes, Chong, Sandler, Adekanye, Kadioglu) and failing to take the next step (Sierhuis, Kongolo, Lang, Obispo) will halt Oranje's return to the elite a bit. Even though van Dijk, De Jong, Depay, De Ligt are doing an extremely good job with their supporting cast. The real jewels and foundation blocks of the future are in the generations below. Especially those talents we are seriously short in right now (AM, ST, WB's). I hope we see a Ihatarren, Frenkie and Gravenberch midfield as soon as the EC of 2022. That just would work beautifully. Oranje's biggest problem will be between the posts. They haven't developed a real elite talent there in ages. Even Cillessen is second tier. These lists barely have any, though they develop at a different pace than field players. Ajax has a few interesting ones in Raatsie, Reiziger, El Maach and Scherpen, but neither seems to be a standout right now. Same goes for the goalkeeping talents elsewhere (Koorevaar, Schendelaar, Drommel).

I'll probably add more later, but great work.

Merci. Looking forward to more opinions

 

[bluesfan94]

A reoccurring theme here. I wonder if anyone who posts on soccer forum regularly still watches hockey. Also you suck for not having Martinez at 100A.

I do, but there're good reasons for that.

@Ajacied Thanks for the list. Hopefully Malen remembers his Arsenal DNA once he develops a little more.

@Ajacied Thanks for updating the list. Going to update my FM database now.

Just need @Evilo, @Pavel Buchnevich, @John Pedro , @Duchene2MacKinnon, @Juni and @cgf to do their lists like in the past and it will be good times again.

That would be great. Always one of my favorite things to read. I know @Evilo said he was going on a break but hopefully he'll be back soon. I miss his insights. @cgf seems to be around more often so hopefully we can cajole him into making another list. I feel ignorant about German youth football these days.

Frankly though, D2M and @John Pedro are here all the time and don't really have excuses for their laziness.

I also used to make a Dutch list, and generally talk with Ajacied privately about them beforehand. Alas, two kids and a lot going on so I don't really have as much time on my hands as I'd like.

Yeah, I would love to have time to watch enough youth soccer to make lists. Ideally, I would do mine not on a country's prospects but rather on a country's league; that is to say, I might get into English youth soccer leagues more once I start working because I like having soccer on while I work. I work better that way.

I just need to find a consistent way to watch games, ideally with full match replays available so I can watch at work

 

[Juni]

I haven't produced lists in years but I'm more knowledgable about the young English game than I ever have been. Might have to dip back in...

 

[robertmac43]

I got you with the ever so important CPL prospects :p. So many future world beaters in the league.

 

[phisherman]

I got you with the ever so important CPL prospects :p. So many future world beaters in the league.

I wouldn't mind a CPL list.

 

[robertmac43]

I wouldn't mind a CPL list.

I will do something at the of the season as I think there are some players moving up at the end of this.

 

[Ajacied]

Nicolas Kühn (19 - Ajax - ST/W) was recently named the best German U19 talent (Fritz Walter award). Previous winners were Kai Havertz, Mario Götze, Julian Draxler, Marc-André ter Stegen, Leon Goretzka and Timo Werner. Nice company to be in, but I am not sure about the recognition. He didn't play up to his potential playing out of position this past season.

 

[AB13]

 

[robertmac43]

That goal was unreal! My goodness!!

 

[YNWA14]

Great goal by the defender.

 

[Juni]

Castillo back to Ajax!

 

[YNWA14]

Ihattaren asked not to be included in the u21 call-up for the upcoming game so that he could 'focus on his decision' in terms of his NT future. Losing him to Morocco would be absolutely terrible. Obviously the Netherlands have enough talent to deal with it, but he might be the most talented player of his generation for the Dutch and it's frustrating to lose another player (like Ziyech) who played and learned all of their football in the Netherlands. Ziyech was a different case because he wanted to play for the Netherlands and was dicked around a bit (well done KNVB), but still. I know Evilo has complained about this in the past and I find it pretty valid.

At the same time I don't want players playing for the NT unless their hearts are in it. It should be an honor and a privilege to represent your country, especially one with the history of the Oranje. Oh well.