Top 5 Dutch Wonderkids to Watch in 2025

The Netherlands has long been a breeding ground for some of the finest football talents the world has ever seen. From the elegance of Johan Cruyff to the precision of Dennis Bergkamp, and the creativity of Wesley Sneijder to the flair of Arjen Robben, EW8 has consistently produced elite players. In 2025, that tradition continues, as a new generation of wonderkids begins to make waves in both the Eredivisie and across Europe.

These young stars are not only standing out at the club level but also being tipped to play a crucial role in the future of the Dutch national team. In this article, we’ll look at the Top 5 Dutch wonderkids to watch in 2025, highlighting their strengths, progress, and why they’re the future of football.

???? 1. Jorrel Hato (Ajax)

Age: 18
Position: Centre-Back
Club: Ajax

Why He’s One to Watch:

Jorrel Hato is already turning heads with his composure, tactical awareness, and confidence beyond his years. A product of the famed Ajax Youth Academy, Hato made his first-team debut at just 17 and has since become a key figure in Ajax’s defensive lineup.

Key Strengths:

• Calm Under Pressure: Hato displays excellent ball control and distribution from the back, making him ideal for modern football systems.

• Leadership Qualities: Despite his age, he often leads the backline, organizing the defense and commanding space.

• Versatility: Able to play as a left-back when needed, giving him added value to both club and country.

As Dutch football continues to rely on technically gifted center-backs, Hato could be the next big name in Europe.

???? 2. Julian Rijkhoff (Borussia Dortmund)

Age: 19
Position: Striker
Club: Borussia Dortmund

Why He’s One to Watch:

Julian Rijkhoff left Ajax at a young age to join Borussia Dortmund’s youth ranks, and the decision has paid off. He’s now one of the top prospects in the Bundesliga youth system and has been consistently scoring goals at youth and reserve levels.

Key Strengths:

• Clinical Finishing: Rijkhoff has an eye for goal, with a natural striker’s instinct inside the box.

• Strong Work Ethic: He presses defenders and works hard off the ball—traits that make him valuable in modern football tactics.

• Movement and Timing: His ability to time his runs behind the defense is reminiscent of top-tier strikers.

Dortmund is well-known for nurturing talents, and Rijkhoff is poised to follow in the footsteps of Erling Haaland and Youssoufa Moukoko.

⚡ 3. Isaac Babadi (PSV Eindhoven)

Age: 19
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Club: PSV Eindhoven

Why He’s One to Watch:

A highly creative and energetic player, Isaac Babadi has the flair and vision that every attacking team craves. Coming through the PSV youth academy, Babadi has already impressed at the senior level, with several standout performances in the Eredivisie.

Key Strengths:

• Creativity and Dribbling: Babadi thrives in tight spaces and can create chances with clever passes and quick footwork.

• Long-Range Shooting: He has a powerful and accurate shot from outside the box.

• Football IQ: His ability to read the game and execute plays makes him mature beyond his years.

As PSV looks to reclaim Eredivisie dominance, Babadi will be central to their creative play in 2025 and beyond.

???? 4. Milan van Ewijk (Stade de Reims)

Age: 24
Position: Right-Back
Club: Stade de Reims

Why He’s One to Watch:

Although slightly older than the other names on this list, Milan van Ewijk still qualifies as an emerging star due to his late breakout. Now playing in Ligue 1 with Stade de Reims, the former Heerenveen full-back is gaining recognition for his explosive runs and defensive resilience.

Key Strengths:

• Pace and Stamina: Van Ewijk is a modern full-back who loves to get forward while also tracking back tirelessly.

• Crossing Ability: He delivers dangerous balls into the box, often creating opportunities for strikers.

• Defensive Solidity: While he's known for attacking, he's no slouch defensively, showing good awareness and timing in tackles.

Van Ewijk's rise could be crucial for the Dutch national team as they seek a reliable and dynamic option at right-back.

???? 5. Mikki van Sas (Manchester City)

Age: 20
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Manchester City

Why He’s One to Watch:

Dutch goalkeepers have historically played a vital role in shaping the country's football success, and Mikki van Sas might be the next name to carry that legacy. Now developing under the mentorship of Pep Guardiola's elite coaching team at Manchester City, van Sas has shown incredible promise.

Key Strengths:

• Shot-Stopping Reflexes: Van Sas has quick reactions and makes crucial saves at critical moments.

• Distribution: A hallmark of modern keepers, he can initiate attacks with pinpoint passes.

• Composure: Even under pressure, he remains calm and calculated—a quality necessary for top-tier goalkeepers.

Van Sas could become the Netherlands’ future number one if his progression continues on its current trajectory.

???? What Makes These Wonderkids Stand Out?

The new generation of Dutch wonderkids is marked by versatility, intelligence, and technical excellence. These players aren't just products of the system; they’re redefining roles and bringing innovation to Dutch football. With an increasing number of these talents playing abroad, the Netherlands is continuing to evolve on the global football stage.

Each of the five players mentioned brings something unique to the pitch. Whether it's Rijkhoff's deadly finishing, Babadi's creativity, or Hato’s defensive intelligence, Dutch football is in safe hands.

???? Final Thoughts: The Future of Dutch Football Is Bright

As 2025 unfolds, these five wonderkids are names every football fan should keep an eye on. They’re not only performing for their clubs but also laying the groundwork to become future legends of the Dutch national team. With their passion, talent, and drive, the future of Dutch football looks incredibly bright.

???? Support the Next Generation of Football Stars!

Get involved and support these rising stars. Share their highlights, follow their journeys, and cheer them on as they chase greatness. The next icons of football are already here—let’s celebrate and support the future of the game.

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