Ligue 1 2025-2026: 10 wonderkids to watch this season including PSG, Lyon starlets

After weeks of anticipation, Ligue 1 returns on Friday, August 15, with a mouth-watering opening clash between Marseille and Rennes. The 2025-26 campaign will provide the perfect stage to track the progress of 10 standout young talents.

Nicknamed “the league of talents” for a reason, French football continues to produce a stream of exciting prospects eager to make their mark. With the unstable finances of some clubs likely to open the door for academy graduates, several youngsters could seize their chance this term.

Here, Sports Mole profiles 10 players aged 21 or under at the start of the season who are worth keeping an eye on. Notably absent are Malick Fofana (Lyon) and Eliesse Ben Seghir (Monaco), who could leave Ligue 1 before the transfer window closes.

Khalis Merah – Lyon

Lyon’s academy is renowned for producing elite talent, and another gem may have emerged during pre-season. Handed his chance by Paulo Fonseca, 18-year-old midfielder Khalis Merah impressed observers with his composure and even scored against Mallorca. First-team minutes could be on the cards this year.

Desire Doue and Joao Neves – Paris Saint-Germain

The most high-profile names on the list, Doue and Neves both lifted the Champions League with PSG last season at the age of 20. With the 2026 World Cup looming, consistent Ligue 1 performances will be key if they are to nail down starting spots for their national teams.

Louis Leroux – Nantes

The 19-year-old midfielder netted on his first Ligue 1 start last term. Monaco have shown interest this summer, but Leroux is expected to continue his development at Nantes in 2025-26.

Darryl Bakola – Marseille

A technically gifted midfielder from the 2007 generation, Bakola made his senior debut under Roberto De Zerbi on January 5, 2025. At 17, he is expected to feature more regularly this season as Marseille juggle Ligue 1 and Champions League commitments.

Ayyoub Bouaddi – Lille

The 17-year-old midfielder caught Europe’s attention with his Champions League displays for Lille. Backed by coach Bruno Genesio, Bouaddi is set to take on more responsibility and could be in the running for the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year award.

Mathis Amougou – Strasbourg

Having impressed with Saint-Etienne before joining Chelsea last winter, the 19-year-old midfielder is now back in France with Strasbourg. In an ambitious, youth-focused side, Amougou will be expected to make an impact.

Ibrahim Osman – Auxerre

Auxerre were one of last season’s surprise packages, and Ghanaian winger Osman could help them shine again. The 20-year-old arrives on loan from Brighton and has the pace and trickery to trouble Ligue 1 defences.

Jeremy Jacquet – Rennes

After starting last season at Clermont, centre-back Jacquet was recalled from loan by Rennes boss Habib Beye and handed a more prominent role. The 20-year-old now looks set for significantly more game time.

Senny Mayulu – Paris Saint-Germain

The 19-year-old scored in the Champions League final and is now a trusted option for Luis Enrique. Able to operate in midfield or attack, Mayulu is a homegrown talent PSG fans will be eager to see flourish.

Juma Bah – Nice

Manchester City spotted his potential early, loaning him to Lens last winter. This season, the 6ft 5in (1.95m) defender has joined Nice, choosing them over Southampton, and will get his first taste of European football with the club.

This article was originally published on Top Mercato.