8. ENZO FERNANDEZ

Known for his technique, creativity, and tactical intelligence, he is considered to be one of the best young midfielders in the world.

As an academy graduate of River Plate, Fernández made his first-team debut for the club in 2019, before spending two seasons on loan with Defensa y Justicia. There, he enjoyed a successful campaign which culminated in him winning the Copa Sudamericana and Recopa Sudamericana, before returning to River Plate in 2021. Following his return, Fernández established himself as an integral player for the club, and won the 2021 Argentine Primera División. He joined Portuguese Primeira Liga side Benfica in the summer of 2022. Having played only six months for Benfica, he was purchased by Premier League club Chelsea in January 2023 for a British-record transfer fee.

Chelsea purchased Fernández for a package worth £106.8 million after a final agreement was reached on 31 January 2023, between the two clubs. He signed an eight-and-a-half-year contract, valid until 2031. Negotiations lasted for more than ten hours and were led by Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali. The fee paid by Chelsea is now a British-record transfer deal, and Benfica received an initial £30 million installment which will be followed by five further payments.

He made his debut in the Premier League on 3 February at home against Fulham and played 90 minutes. On 11 February, Enzo registered an assist for the team's only goal in a 1–1 league draw at West Ham United.

An Argentine international, Fernández previously represented his country at under-18 level before making his senior international debut. He represented Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, playing an important role in helping his country win their third title, while also winning the tournament's Young Player Award.