Detourbet, Pedro, Kalulu, Versini headline Ligue two’s U21 XI tipped to step up to Ligue one | OneFootball

Ligue two’s under-21 XI of breakout talents is taking shape, with several who could soon surface in Ligue one or abroad.

According to L'Équipe, eligibility was limited to players aged 21 or under with fewer than 10 top-flight matches, chosen with input from scouts, sporting directors, coaches and a recruitment tool. Reims pair Patrick Zabi and Abdoul Koné were omitted as moves to Paris FC and Leipzig are already agreed.

In goal, Dunkerque’s Mathys Niflore, 19, has asserted himself after a slow start, 1.95 m and on loan from TFC, admired for his distribution. Pau’s Noah Raveyre, 20, is one to track longer term.

At centre-back, Amiens’ Siaka Bakayoko, 20, is captain, powerful and still polishing his passing, with interest from Serie A, MLS and Belgium. Isaac Cossier, 19, a tall left-footer on loan from LOSC to Le Mans, also appeals.

Full-back is richly stocked. Pau’s Joseph Kalulu, 21, posts exceptional athletic data and dominates one-v-one, though lacks final-third punch. On the right, Saint-Étienne’s Kévin Pedro, 20, a converted centre-back, is delivering a standout first season, strong in duels with refined technique.

In Dunkerque’s midfield, Strasbourg loanee Pape Diong, 19, 1.95 m, raw after starting football at 14, should have the tools to earn a Premier League berth. Team-mate Antoine Sekongo, 21, an adventurous relay with eight league goals, could reach Ligue one if he finds consistency.

On the flank, Troyes’ Mathys Detourbet, 18, is the standout, creative with a rare first touch. City Groupe do not plan to sell him this summer. Up front, there is no clear number nine, though Pau’s Omar Sissoko, 19, on loan from Paris FC, looks a modern break runner.

Source: L'Équipe