The Copa America has always been one of the most exciting international tournaments. Alongside the exciting action on the pitch, the 2021 edition will also attract the attention of scouts from across the world who will be looking to see who is going to be the next big thing to come out of the continent.
Let’s look at three young players who will be looking to impress. How much of an impact will they have and could they lead their nation to glory?
Vinicius Júnior (Brazil)
Júnior signed for Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018 and is seen as one of Brazil’s main hopes for the future. He will more than likely form a part of his country’s attacking line-up at the upcoming tournament.
Brazil is currently the favorite to win the tournament ahead of rivals like Argentina and those betting on sites like Space Casino will see that Brazil are currently around 10/11 to win the competition. They are also huge favorites to win their first Group Stage match against Venezuela.
Despite some success for his club, reports have indicated that he could be on the move this summer. He has been linked with a transfer to Liverpool and an impressive Copa America will only increase the number of potential suitors.
Julian Alvarez (Argentina)
Álvarez is a player seen as the future of Argentinian football. With the likes of Sergio Aguero and Lionel Messi starting to reach the later stages of their careers, his development is going to be important. Since starting his career at River Plate, he has scored 10 goals in his first 40 appearances.
An impressive tournament could see him further into the spotlight and gaining the interest of big clubs from around Europe. He has already shown some glimpses of his obvious potential.
Moises Caicedo (Ecuador)
Caicedo signed for Brighton & Hove Albion in February 2021 and is very much seen as one for the future. Caicedo will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of fellow Ecuadorian Antonio Valencia and have a successful career in the Premier League alongside starring for his country. Will he shine for Ecuador and perhaps give the Brighton manager a reason to select him in the Premier League next season?
The fact that he ranks third behind Lionel Messi and Ángel Mena for the most key passes in the World Cup 2022 qualifiers would suggest he has a lot to offer the South Coast side.
More information on the tournament
The Copa America will be held in Brazil and starts on 13th June. They are also the reigning champions. The format of the competition involves two groups of five with the top four in each group qualifying for the knockout stage. This format means that a few of the tournament outsiders, such as Ecuador, have a great chance of reaching the later stages.
It will be interesting to see if any of the players listed above lead their nation to glory or will a further dark horse come to the forefront of a continent’s attention.
