Golden Boy Award

The Golden Boy award, first established by Italian sports newspaper Tuttosport in 2003, is an annual award that crowns Europe’s best young footballer of the year.

All nominees must be under the age of 21 and play in a top European league. Often the biggest soccer talents are also called ‘Wonder kids’.

Traditionally, a player can only win the award once, so once Golden Boy status has been achieved, the award ensures attention can move to other young players who deserve to be highlighted.

The winner of the award is determined by a vote. Each voter allocates 10 points to the player they deem most impressive, with seven for second, five for third, three for fourth and one point for fifth.

Votes are compiled from sports journalists at Europe’s most well-respected newspapers.