Over the last few seasons, the French Ligue 1 has become a hotbed for some of the most rising talents in the world’s football. Today, the French top flight is a valuable production line for EPL heavyweights and other top leagues in Europe.
The Ligue 1 takes credit for helping to unveil the talent of great players like Ismaila Sarr, Jean Michael Seri, and Nicholas Pepe. All the three players recently transferred to the EPL in big money moves during the last transfer window. Here are more Ligue 1 African players that might become huge EPL stars in the future.
1. Eduardo Camavinga
At 17 years, Eduardo Camavinga is currently among the most exciting soccer players in the world. Camavinga is already proving to be among Ligue 1’s best all-round midfielders, and he was very influential in helping Stade Rennes reach the Champions League last season.
Besides his impressive technical qualities, the Angola-born footballer has an eye-catching tenacity and immense defensive work. Despite moving into France as a kid, Camavinga is eligible to play for both Congo-Brazzaville and Angola, though he’s only for the French youth team for now.
2. Rayan Cherki
If you’re on the lookout for talented players worth betting on at Betway, Rayan Cherki is your guy. Cherki was the youngest player to play in a Champions League semifinals game, going in as Lyon’s substitute against Bayern Munich.
While the 17-year-old renewed his contract with Lyon until 2023, the versatile attacker has attracted the attention of Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid. As such, you can expect to wager on Cherki with Betway English Premier League Bets, if Lyon were to consider a deal.
3. Samuel Kalu
While Samuel Kalu didn’t exactly shine in the League 1 last season, his talent on the field is undeniable. The Nigeria native managed to record only one goal and a single assist last season, though his injuries might have contributed to his poor performance.
Recently, Kalu has been linked with a move to the Turkish Super Lig side, Fenerbahce, though other EPL teams are said to be interested in him. Nonetheless, nothing has been confirmed yet, as other teams, including Galatasaray, are interested in acquiring Kalu.
4. Rayan Ait Nouri
After making 17 league appearances for Angers last season, Rayan has proven that he has solid defensive fundamentals and an effective crossing. The Algeria native registered two assists last season, and he’s known for wreaking havoc on the opposition’s backline.
The 19-year-old currently plays for the Les Bleus under-21 international team, and he has been linked with a move to Manchester United. However, some fans feel that Rayan isn’t ready to play for the Red Devils first squad though he could be a long-term solution to the team’s problem with the left-back position.
5. Boubakary Soumare
Compared to Paul Pogba in terms of potential and style, Boubakary Soumare has continued blossoming since joining Lille from the PSG academy. Soumare boasts of impressive technical quality, and his physical strength allows him to dominate the midfield.
Soumare is eligible to play for Senegal, though he’s currently playing for the international side, Les Bleus. He might also be the next big EPL star after Pogba, having been linked with a move to Manchester United. However, reports indicate that Newcastle is also looking into the possibility of signing him.
