Overview

• The Italian newspaper released the definitive shortlist of under-21 contenders in Europe for the 2025-26 award, with the winner yet to be decided.
• Chelsea forward Estêvão is the sole Brazilian finalist, following his 2025 transfer from Palmeiras reported at about €61.5 million.
• Record reports the list was largely derived from a Football Benchmark algorithm, with five editorial wild cards that include Porto’s Rodrigo Mora.
• Sporting’s Geovany Quenda and Porto’s Victor Froholdt are included from the algorithm-based pool, according to Record’s breakdown.
• Award rules prohibit back-to-back winners, which removes reigning recipient Lamine Yamal, while notable finalists include PSG’s Désiré Doué, Manchester United’s Leny Yoro, and Real Madrid’s Arda Güler and Franco Mastantuono.