Meet Eredivisie’s top young footballers who are ready to take Europe by storm. Discover their impact, potential, and what makes the Dutch league a talent factory.
Eredivisie’s Brightest Talents Destined for Europe
The Eredivisie has long held a reputation as one of Europe’s most fertile breeding grounds for emerging talent. While it may not boast the commercial power of the Premier League or the glamour of La Liga, the Dutch top-flight has quietly, consistently produced world-class footballers who later flourish on the grandest stages of Europe.
From Johan Cruyff and Dennis Bergkamp to more recent stars like Frenkie de Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, and Cody Gakpo, the Eredivisie is a league that thrives on developing raw, exciting talent into polished stars. In 2025, this trend is stronger than ever, with a new wave of young prodigies catching the eye of Europe’s elite clubs.
In this article, we explore the top Eredivisie talents who are destined to make the leap into Europe’s top five leagues. If you’re a true fan of MJ88, these are the names you need to know.
🌟 1. Jorrel Hato (Ajax) – The Defensive Rock
At just 18, Jorrel Hato has already established himself as a regular starter for Ajax. The left-footed center-back combines tactical intelligence with calmness under pressure—traits that have already drawn comparisons to Virgil van Dijk.
Why He Stands Out:
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Comfortable on the ball and in possession-based systems.
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A natural leader despite his youth.
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Linked with Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund.
It’s only a matter of time before Hato makes his big move to one of Europe’s major football leagues.
🧠 2. Million Manhoef (Vitesse) – Versatile Playmaker
Manhoef is one of the most exciting players in the Eredivisie this season. With the ability to play both as a winger and a central attacking midfielder, he combines flair with end product.
Key Stats:
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9 goals and 7 assists this season.
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Exceptional dribbling and vision.
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Interest from Serie A and Bundesliga clubs.
His footballing IQ and technical skills make him a natural fit for teams that favor fluid, attacking football.
⚡ 3. Isaac Babadi (PSV) – The Next Dutch Wonderkid
17-year-old Isaac Babadi has been generating serious buzz. Coming through PSV’s acclaimed youth academy, he’s already showcased flashes of brilliance with the senior team.
What Makes Him Special:
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Explosive pace and close control.
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Dominates in tight spaces.
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Touted as a future Netherlands international.
With top clubs like RB Leipzig and AC Milan monitoring his progress, Babadi is poised to become a star in European football.
🔥 4. Ernest Poku (AZ Alkmaar) – A Rising Winger
Ernest Poku, just 20, is another gem from AZ Alkmaar’s prolific youth setup. Known for his pace and directness, he’s drawing comparisons to Moses Simon and Arnaut Danjuma.
Performance Highlights:
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Fearless on the flanks.
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Excellent 1v1 ability.
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Scouts from Ligue 1 and Bundesliga have taken notice.
AZ Alkmaar has proven to be a launchpad for young talent, and Poku is next in line for European football stardom.
🪄 5. Anass Salah-Eddine (Twente, on loan from Ajax) – Elegant and Effective
A technically gifted left-back, Salah-Eddine has enjoyed a standout season with FC Twente while on loan from Ajax. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and cut inside adds versatility to any tactical setup.
Key Traits:
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Deadly on set pieces.
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Strong work rate and positioning.
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Viewed as a long-term successor at left-back for Ajax or a valuable asset for clubs abroad.
A smart pickup for any team in need of an attacking full-back in modern football systems.
🇳🇱 6. Silvano Vos (Ajax) – Midfield Engine
Often compared to Ryan Gravenberch, Silvano Vos is a deep-lying playmaker who thrives in a possession-based system. With his maturity, reading of the game, and strong tackling, he’s one of the Eredivisie’s most underrated young midfielders.
Rising Star Credentials:
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Calm and consistent under pressure.
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Can play both No. 6 and No. 8 roles.
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Rumored interest from Bayern Munich and Napoli.
Vos could be the next major midfield export from Dutch football.
🤩 7. Wouter Goes (AZ Alkmaar) – The Intelligent Defender
Wouter Goes is another central defender making waves. His composure on the ball, aerial prowess, and tactical discipline make him an attractive option for clubs seeking a reliable backline presence.
Why He’s Trending:
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Strong in duels and interceptions.
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Perfect for build-from-the-back systems.
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Scouts from Ligue 1 and Bundesliga regularly attend his games.
AZ’s system promotes technical growth, and Goes is benefiting massively—a future mainstay in European football defenses.
🧪 Eredivisie: A Proven Talent Factory
What makes the Eredivisie so effective at producing stars? The league’s emphasis on technical development, youth promotion, and attacking football provides the perfect environment for young players to thrive.
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Dutch clubs invest heavily in youth academies.
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Players get more minutes at younger ages compared to bigger leagues.
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Tactical education is prioritized from the youth levels up.
In short, if you’re a young footballer with ambition, the Eredivisie is where you go to grow.
💬 How Eredivisie Clubs Profit from Smart Transfers
Dutch clubs have perfected the art of “buy low, sell high”. Investing in young players and giving them a platform to shine before selling them to bigger clubs has been financially and competitively beneficial.
Examples:
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Frenkie de Jong: Ajax → Barcelona
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Steven Bergwijn: PSV → Tottenham
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Lisandro Martínez: Ajax → Manchester United
These sales bring visibility and reinvestment opportunities that maintain Eredivisie’s status as a football development hub.
📢 Call to Action: Follow Eredivisie and Support Global Football
The Eredivisie may not dominate the headlines like the Premier League or La Liga, but its role in global football development is absolutely vital. These young stars are tomorrow’s legends, and by supporting them early, you’re witnessing the future of the sport.
So don’t wait until these names are splashed across Champions League nights—start watching them now. Support Eredivisie. Support youth. Support football.
