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The Premier League has never had a dearth of young talent. Over the years, teams have nurtured and developed youngsters into some of the finest players in the league. These players form the backbone of the club and become their mainstay for years to come.
This young and budding talent isn’t just homegrown as there have been several instances of exemplary foreign players dominating the Premier League. Identifying such talent is never easy and entrusting them to step up on the pitch is a risk every manager should be willing to take.
The Premier League's future is in safe hands
The new generation of football exudes unmatched energy and vibrance to the pitch. Here are five Premier League teams where U-21 players have scored the most goals.
#5 Manchester United - 5 goals
The Red Devils' academy has played a huge part in the club's success in previous campaigns. Their much-feared title-winning teams of the past were built on a backbone of young talent. Playing for United is a dream for many and doing so at such a young age is simply incredible.
18.5% of Manchester United’s goals have been scored by U-21 players this season. Cristiano Ronaldo is their leading goalscorer with eight goals but 20-year-old Mason Greenwood has scored five, which is commendable. With tremendous experience around him, the youngster is undoubtedly a superstar in the making.
Manchester United have had an abysmal season so far, in matters both on and off the pitch. Since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s sacking, Ralf Rangnick had to shoulder the responsibilities at the club. United are currently fourth in the league but could be overtaken as they have played more matches.
#4 Southampton - 5 goals
Southampton have shown decent progress under Ralph Hassenhuttl. They have put in consistent performances and are unbeaten in their last eight consecutive league home games.
Five of the 26 goals Southampton have scored have been courtesy of players U-21. In fact, all of these have been scored by Armando Broja. Another Chelsea loanee, Broja has dazzled for Southampton this season. The Saints are reportedly looking to get a permanent deal over the line before the transfer deadline.
Southampton are currently 12th in the league and have ruffled the feathers of several top teams. Notably, they have managed to avoid defeat against leaders Manchester City on both occasions this season.
#3 Manchester City - 7 goals
Manchester City have dominated the Premier League over the past few years. Their incredible squad depth combined with quality management has led to them being one of the strongest clubs in the world.
U-21 players have scored seven goals for Manchester City, which equates to 13.7% of their 55 total goals. Phil Foden has scored five goals for City and is currently in red-hot form. His versatility and skill at the age of just 21 are invaluable assets to Pep Guardiola. The Englishman is City’s best prospect in terms of planning for the future.
Manchester City are once again tearing up the Premier League, and are at the top of the Premier League with 57 points. They will ensure they don't get too complacent, as Liverpool can close the gap between them to just six points if they win their game in hand.
#2 Crystal Palace - 9 goals
When Patrick Vieira was made Crystal Palace’s manager, he was immediately put under tremendous scrutiny. However, Vieira seems to have transferred the passion he used to display on the pitch into the dressing room. His appointment has gone down well at Selhurst Park, and his expertise can guide the Eagles to a more respectable position over the years.
Out of Palace’s 31 Premier League goals this season, 33.3% have been scored by U-21 players. Conor Gallagher leads their goalscoring charts with seven goals. Fans will undoubtedly be left disappointed if the Englishman leaves the club at the end of the season to look for better opportunities.
Crystal Palace are currently 13th in the Premier League and are competing for a top ten finish. However, the atmosphere around Selhurst Park seems to have significantly improved, with fans anticipating better times ahead.
#1 Arsenal - 17 goals
Arsenal take the number one spot on this list. Arsenal's academy has always been a reliable source of budding talent, and this season has proven just how special graduates can be. Mikel Arteta has a young and talented squad at his disposal and he will look to mold them in the best way possible.
Arsenal have scored 33 Premier League goals this season, and 17 of these have been scored by U-21. This equates to a whopping 53.1%. Emile Smith-Rowe is the Gunner’s leading goalscorer with eight goals. Bukayo Saka followed his fellow Englishman into second place with six goals. Gabriel Martinelli’s contributions are also worth mentioning, as the Brazilian has four goals to his name.
Arsenal are currently sixth in the Premier League but have played a few games less than their closest competitors. If they can stay on track for the remainder of the season, a Champions League spot will be a real possibility.
