Yan Diomande and Assan Ouédraogo shortlisted for Golden Boy Award | OneFootball

Two of our boys have earned a special honour, with Yan Diomande and Assan Ouédraogo both named among Europe’s leading U21 talents in the Golden Boy ranking.

Yan is currently the highest-ranked Bundesliga player in fourth place, while Assan sits 24th. The ranking is led by Spain superstar Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona, although he is unable to win the award again after claiming it in 2024.

The prestigious list, compiled by Tuttosport in partnership with Transfermarkt, uses a specially developed score to assess the best young talents in Europe. A separate online fan vote is also open alongside the ranking to crown the “Golden Boy Web”.

Vote for Yan and Assan here

From Rookie of the Season to Golden Boy?

Yan’s current place among Europe’s top five talents is the latest recognition of an exceptional rise. Our young winger impressed in his first season with the Red Bulls with his performances, pace, bravery in 1-v-1 situations and a stream of goal contributions. Dio was ultimately named Rookie of the Season at the end of the campaign.

Yan also caught the eye at his first World Cup with Ivory Coast. The 19-year-old helped his country reach the round of 32, where they were knocked out by Norway in a clash with fellow Red Bull Antonio Nusa.

Strong finish rewarded with World Cup call-up

Assan has also earned his place among Europe’s best young players. After two knee injuries, our midfielder fought his way back impressively last season and made a real impact in the final weeks of the campaign.

The highlight for the 20-year-old came after he made his Germany debut in the 6-0 win over Slovakia last November and scored straight away. He was then added to the World Cup squad as a late replacement for the injured Lennart Karl of Bayern Munich.

When will the winner be decided?

The final list of nominees will be cut down to the top 20 in the index plus five wildcards by October. An international jury of experts will then choose the Golden Boy 2026.

All talents born in 2006 or later and playing in one of Europe’s top 25 leagues are eligible this year.

See the full Top 100 list here: Golden Boy Index 2026

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