It’s remarkable how time flies. In 2022, ESPN released a list of the best U21 women’s soccer players. Interestingly, it was USWNT sensation Trinity Rodman who claimed the top spot in the rankings. Beyond being a significant achievement for the then-18-year-old striker, it was also a proud moment for her nation, with an American-born player leading the pack alongside top talents from Europe. However, the same cannot be said when fast-forwarding to today!

Forget about first place or even the top three—American fans should feel lucky just to see their players make the top 10. Yep, that’s how much the competition has grown since Rodman topped the prestigious list. And rightly so, given that this year’s rankings feature players who have shined on the biggest stages, including the 2023 World Cup and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. So, who are they?

Well, before we do, let’s directly talk about the USWNT youngsters who have managed to make the cut. First is North Carolina Courage midfielder Jaedyn Shaw, who took fifth place on the list for having enjoyed a meteoric rise on the international front. Then going two places down, we have Ally Sentnor, thanks to her breakout season with the Utah Royals. It also saw her get named as the 2024 U.S. Soccer Young Player of the Year.

Looking for more? Well, there’s actually just one more that somehow managed to squeeze within the top 10. Again going three places below this time from Sentnor’s position, we have Lily Yohannes. Even though she has yet to turn 18, the Ajax star made waves on the international front for both the Netherlands and the USWNT. It was last year, she finally decided to represent Emma Hayes and Co.’s banner.

As surprising as it may sound, that’s all from America. Now before we end up making more assumptions, let’s hear the full list. To address the elephant in the room, the first place went to Spanish teenager Vicky López. The FC Barcelona star dominates due to her 18 goals in 51 league games since her debut for Barcelona in 2022. Indeed, a remarkable feat for someone who began her pro journey at age 16.

Not to mention she has also lifted three Spanish Super Cups, two Liga F titles, one Spanish Cup, and two Champions Leagues while sharing the pitch alongside 2x Ballon d’Or winners Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas. Behind her, trails Haiti-born and Lyon’s 21-year-old midfielder Melchie Dumornay at second place.

While Colombian and Real Madrid sensation Linda Caicedo takes the third place for her obviously established name in the women’s game, Chelsea and Japan’s 20-year-old forward Maika Hamano takes a spot above Jaedyn Shaw. As we go ahead, Lyon and Brazil center-back Tarciane claim sixth place.

Meanwhile, sandwiching between Sentnor and Yohannes are Spain and Barcelona forward Salma Paralluelo and the Netherlands and Chelsea midfielder Wieke Kaptein at eighth and ninth place, respectively. Well, if you think this is interesting, wait till you hear more.

USWNT stars get overshadowed by foreign talents

After rounding out the top 10, the rankings continue with Chelsea and England forward Aggie Beever-Jones (11th), followed by Red Star Belgrade and Serbia’s Nina Matejić (12th). Next up is Italian playmaker Giulia Dragoni (13th), currently on loan at AS Roma from Barcelona. She is followed by Manchester United and England’s Grace Clinton (14th), with Bayern Munich and Japan’s Momoko Tanikawa (15th) close behind.

North Carolina Courage’s Brazilian forward Aline Gomes (16th) comes next, while Nigerian talent Chiamaka Okwuchukwu (17th) of San Diego Wave follows. Likewise, Bayern Munich’s German attacking midfielder Alara Sehitler (18th) lands just ahead of 18-year-old Alice Soto (19th) from Monterrey. Additionally, Boca Juniors and Argentina’s Kishi Núñez (20th) take the next spot.

Last but not least, Australian midfielder Daniela Galic (21st) of FC Twente rounds off this year’s prestigious ESPN list. Either way, it is quite an interesting list. While many may still find it hard to accept these rankings, it’s important to note that ESPN compiled this list with input from a diverse panel, including players, managers, journalists, and fans. Personal preference also played a role in shaping the final selections.

Regardless, who do you think is missed from the USWNT and other names across Europe? Sound off in the comments.