1. Marcus Rashford, Manchester United
Rahsford is far removed from the brand new sensation he was when he burst onto the scene for United in 2016. He’s spent two full seasons in the senior team since, and has represented England at consecutive international tournaments.
A resume this bloated makes it easy to forget Rashford is still just 20. The forward is also still searching for a place to make his own at United.
He’s played center-forward and on either flank. While Mourinho has called him off the bench plenty of times, he’s rarely trusted Rashford to start.
Rashford started less than half the Red Devils’ league games last season. His career at Old Trafford is rapidly approaching a crossroads.
Opportunities remain for Rashford to become a regular since Mourinho is less than enamoured with fellow forward Anthony Martial.
Mourinho has even criticized the Frenchman for taking time away from the squad for the birth of his second child, per Uche Amako of the Daily Express: “Anthony Martial, he had the baby and after the baby was born, beautiful baby, full of health thank god, he should be here but he is not here.”
Martial’s future seems set to be away from Old Trafford. It means there should be more playing time for Rashford, who must take full advantage.
It will mean becoming more consistent in front of goal, particularly in one-on-one situations. While he’s had his moments, notably scoring a brace to beat Liverpool back in March, there’s also been too many times when Rashford hasn’t been up to scratch.
This season is likely to determine how far he can go at the highest level.