Ligue 1’s Brightest Young Talents: Top 10 Exciting Strikers to Watch

Ligue 1 is well-known for nurturing and showcasing emerging football talent. This season, a fresh wave of young strikers is making a notable impact on the league.

These energetic forwards are not just scoring goals; they are also captivating fans with their creativity, agility, and determination on the field. Each player brings a unique style and flair, distinguishing themselves in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

In this article, we take a look at ten of the most exciting young strikers currently making waves in Ligue 1. Their remarkable performances and potential to become the stars of tomorrow are turning heads and winning hearts. Join us as we explore the stories and skills of these promising players who are poised to shape the future of French football.

1. Jonathan David

Jonathan David, the Canadian soccer sensation, has firmly established himself as one of Ligue 1’s top strikers. Known for his pace, finishing, and versatility, David excels in multiple positions, including central forward, second striker, and even wider roles.

His clinical finishing in the penalty area and speed off the ball make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. David’s ability to link up with midfielders and create space for his teammates further enhances his value on the field.

David’s achievements include being named Canada Soccer Player of the Year twice (2019 and 2024), winning the Concacaf champion title in 2021-22, and securing a Concacaf Silver Medal in 2022-23. His standout moment came in 2024 when he scored a penalty against Real Madrid in the Champions League.

His consistent performances have attracted interest from top European clubs, including FC Barcelona and several Premier League teams. With 11 goals and 2 assists in Ligue 1 this season, and 7 goals in the UEFA Champions League, David’s market value continues to soar.

2. Mason Greenwood

Mason Greenwood, the English winger, has quickly become a standout player for Olympique de Marseille in Ligue 1.

His journey began with early recognition, winning the Premier League 2 Player of the Month in April 2019 and the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award at the end of the season. Greenwood made his first senior start for Manchester United against Cardiff City, showcasing his potential early on.

Since joining Marseille, Greenwood has become a fan favorite, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in his first season. His dribbling, ball control, and agility have earned him high ratings in EA SPORTS FC 25. This season, Greenwood has continued to impress with 12 goals and 3 assists in 19 Ligue 1 matches.

Greenwood’s performances have not gone unnoticed, and he is attracting interest from bigger clubs across Europe. With his consistent displays, it seems only a matter of time before he makes another big move.

3. Bradley Barcola

Bradley Barcola, the talented young French winger, has made a significant impact at Paris Saint-Germain since his transfer from Lyon in 2023 for €45 million.

Known for his speed, agility, and dribbling skills, Barcola excels in multiple positions, including left-winger, right-winger, and left-midfielder. His strong crossing ability creates numerous opportunities for his teammates, while his vision helps him read defenders effectively.

However, Barcola’s finishing from longer distances and reliance on his strong foot can sometimes limit his effectiveness. Despite these areas for improvement, his explosive pace and dribbling prowess make him a formidable opponent.

This season, Barcola has scored 11 goals and provided 3 assists in Ligue 1, with 1 goal and 1 assist in the UEFA Champions League. His market value continues to rise as he consistently impresses on the field.

Read More: Premier League’s Rising Stars: Top 10 Thrilling Young Strikers

4. Evann Guessand

Evann Guessand, the Ivorian striker for OGC Nice, has been making waves in Ligue 1 with his impressive performances.

Known for his goal-scoring ability and versatility, Guessand has netted crucial goals in important matches, including a match-winner against Lyon and a decisive strike in his first European match. His journey began at OGC Nice’s youth academy, and he has since played for Lausanne-Sport and Nantes on loan.

This season, Guessand has continued to shine with 10 goals and 6 assists in 33 appearances across all competitions. His consistent displays have attracted interest from West Ham, with transfer talks reportedly underway. A move abroad seems likely, though Nice’s potential qualification for the UEFA Champions League could persuade him to stay.

5. Terem Moffi

Terem Moffi, the Nigerian striker for OGC Nice, has been making a significant impact in Ligue 1 with his strong finishing and dribbling skills.

In the 2023–24 season, Moffi has been the club’s top scorer with 11 goals in Ligue 1, contributing to his impressive tally of 35 goals in 90 appearances for Nice. His performances have also been recognized on the international stage, scoring goals for the Nigerian national team.

Moffi’s journey began at Buckswood Football Academy in England, and he has played for clubs in Lithuania and Belgium before joining OGC Nice on loan in January 2023, with an option to buy him for €30 million. His standout moments include scoring against Paris Saint-Germain and netting goals in the Conference League quarter-final against Basel.

This season, Moffi has continued to impress with 11 goals and 2 assists in Ligue 1, and 3 goals in the UEFA Conference League. His consistent performances have made him a key player for both his club and country.

Read More: Bundesliga’s Rising Stars: Top 10 Exciting Young Strikers

6. Arnaud Kalimuendo

Arnaud Kalimuendo, the promising French striker, has been turning heads with his scoring consistency and is now a potential target for Juventus. In his second year at his previous club, Kalimuendo netted 12 goals in 32 Ligue 1 games.

His impressive form continued at Rennes, where he scored seven goals in 30 league appearances. This season, Kalimuendo has been even more prolific, scoring 15 goals from 41 matches across all competitions.

Considered a potential leader for the French men’s team at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Kalimuendo’s ratings in EA SPORTS FC™ 25 are impressive: Shooting: 76, Positioning: 179, Finishing: 279, Shot Power: 76, Long Shots: 73, Volleys: 75, Penalties: 66.

With his consistent performances, Kalimuendo’s future looks bright, and a move to Juventus could be on the horizon.

7. Emanuel Emegha

Emanuel Emegha, the promising young striker for Strasbourg, has been turning heads in Ligue 1 with his impressive performances.

Standing at 6’4″, Emegha’s height gives him a significant advantage in aerial duels and makes him a constant threat in the box. His pace and clinical finishing with both feet have made him a consistent scorer.

This season, Emegha has scored 8 goals and provided 2 assists in 14 Ligue 1 appearances. While he is still developing his overall game, including aspects like link-up play and movement off the ball, his potential is undeniable.

With his physical attributes and scoring ability, Emegha is attracting attention from bigger clubs, and a move abroad could be on the horizon if he continues to develop.

8. Luis Henrique

Luis Henrique, the Brazilian left midfielder for Olympique de Marseille, has become one of the team’s key attacking threats.

Under the guidance of Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi, Henrique has developed confidence and flexibility, excelling in both midfield and wing-back roles. In the 2024/25 campaign, Henrique has netted 6 goals and provided 4 assists.

Henrique’s recent performances have been instrumental in Marseille’s victories against Lens, Monaco, and Saint-Étienne.

His standout moment came in the Europa League Semi-Finals 2nd Leg against Atalanta BC, where Marseille triumphed 3-01. However, in Ligue 1 Matchday 34 against Le Havre AC, Marseille faced a 1-2 defeat.

With his consistent displays, Henrique continues to be a vital player for Marseille, attracting attention from bigger clubs across Europe.

Read More:

9. Matthis Abline

Matthis Abline, the young French striker for FC Nantes, is considered a rising star in Ligue 1.

Known for his decent pace, good movement in the box, and clinical finishing, Abline has shown great potential. His ability to link up with teammates further enhances his value on the field.

This season, Abline has scored 5 goals in 18 Ligue 1 appearances. While he is still developing and needs to improve his consistency in scoring, aerial ability, and overall physical strength, his performances indicate a promising future.

Abline’s journey began at FC Nantes, and he continues to impress with his versatility and finishing ability. With room for further improvement, Abline is seen as a player who could make a significant impact at a higher level in the coming years.

10. Hamed Traoré

Hamed Traoré, the talented Ivory Coast international, has been a key player for AJ Auxerre in Ligue 1.

Known for his technical finesse and quick passing, Traoré has been instrumental in the team’s attacking third, scoring multiple match-winning goals. His contributions have helped Auxerre stay above the relegation zone.

Traoré’s career began at Empoli in Serie B and Serie A, and he also played for Sassuolo before joining Auxerre on loan from Bournemouth. This season, Traoré has made 16 appearances, scoring 8 goals and providing 3 assists in Ligue 1.

With his consistent performances, Traoré continues to be a vital player for Auxerre and a potential target for bigger clubs. His impact on the team’s ability to transition effectively has been crucial to their early success in Ligue 1.