The English Football League is a hotbed of talent, and 2026 promises to be a breakthrough year for a crop of young players who have already begun turning heads.
From lightning-fast wingers to instinctive goal-scorers, these eleven stars are on the rise—and some could soon be lighting up the Premier League.
Brighton’s academy standout is making waves at Bolton with a blend of pace, flair, and creative ingenuity.
Cozier-Duberry thrives in tight spaces and has a knack for taking on defenders, often leaving them flat-footed before delivering an incisive pass or a shot on goal.
Watching him glide past defenders and deliver that final killer ball is a reminder of just how technically gifted he is.
Why 2026 matters: If he can turn these flashes of brilliance into regular contributions, Cozier-Duberry could be one of the most exciting wingers in the EFL.
Ballard has all the instincts of a natural poacher. Even with limited service, he finds space in the box, times his runs to perfection, and keeps a cool head when finishing.
At Leyton Orient, he is quickly establishing himself as the kind of forward defenders have to plan for specifically.
Why 2026 matters: With more consistent minutes, Ballard could hit double figures in goals and become a key figure in League One.
Physically imposing yet technically capable, Kanu is a forward who combines strength, movement, and finishing ability.
He’s learning to balance his raw talent with composure in front of goal, and his loan spell at Walsall is the perfect environment to develop.
Why 2026 matters: Refining his finishing could see Kanu evolve into a consistent striker capable of performing at Championship level.
Maamma is a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder with a rare combination of energy and intelligence.
He is comfortable carrying the ball, breaking lines, and linking defense to attack. There’s a maturity to his game that sets him apart, suggesting he could be a key cog in Watford’s future plans.
Why 2026 matters: Maamma’s ability to control games could see him cement himself as a driving force in the Championship.
Chelsea’s academy prospect impressed on loan at Huddersfield with his calmness, versatility, and intelligence on the ball, which recently earned him a permanent move to Middlesborough.
Castledine can dictate play, switch the point of attack, and control the rhythm of games, a rare maturity for his age.
Why 2026 matters: A strong season could be the springboard for him to establish himself as a Championship mainstay and a regular for his new club.
Ivanovic is a technically gifted forward with a keen eye for goal and the movement to find space in crowded areas.
His powerful shooting and composure in front of goal make him a constant threat, even from half-chances.
Why 2026 matters: If he can maintain consistency, Ivanovic could become one of the Championship’s most reliable attacking outlets.
Direct, quick, and fearless, Cleary is a winger who loves to take on defenders and create chances out of nothing.
He thrives in wide areas and is increasingly influencing games with goals and assists.
Why 2026 matters: Cleary’s attacking flair could make him Barnsley’s go-to match-winner next season.
Kyreece Lisbie is fast, intelligent, and growing in confidence.
At Colchester, he is developing into a sharp forward who knows how to exploit spaces and create opportunities for himself and teammates.
Why 2026 matters: Lisbie could emerge as a key goal threat in League Two, with potential to move up the divisions.
Kyrell Lisbie is an agile attacker with flair and creativity. He can operate across the front line, using his dribbling and vision to unlock defenses and create chances in the final third.
Why 2026 matters: Developing consistency could see Kyrell become a decisive figure for Peterborough and potentially higher up the pyramid.
Irankunda is one of Watford’s brightest young prospects.
A winger with electrifying pace, skill, and fearlessness, he can change games in a flash and has already shown the ability to influence Championship matches.
Why 2026 matters: Irankunda is on the cusp of establishing himself as a regular starter and attracting Premier League attention.
Mbick is a versatile, intelligent midfielder capable of contributing at both ends of the pitch. His adaptability makes him valuable, whether breaking up attacks or driving forward to create chances.
Why 2026 matters: The year offers a chance for the midfielder to progress, and push himself into the spotlight among EFL fans.
The EFL is a proving ground for young talent, and these 11 players represent the next wave of stars ready to make their mark.
Each is at a different stage of development, but all share the potential to become influential figures for their clubs and some may even take the leap into the Premier League sooner than expected.
Keep a close eye on them in 2026; the future of English football is already showing its brightest signs in the Championship, League One and League Two.
