Every A-League season clubs discover youngsters from across the country and give them a chance to shine in the spotlight.
Bruno Fornaroli, Josh Risdon and James Troisi are just some of the names who started as bright young teenagers who later developed into the competing forces they are now.
The 2019/20 season is no different with a number of young Australians being thrown into testing conditions and passing with flying colours.
We take a look at who the best performers of this season will be.
Al Hassan Toure (Adelaide United)
With four goals in United’s run into the FFA Cup, the 19-year-old Guinean born striker has come just in time to fill the gaping hole in the Reds’ front line.
Adelaide’s new coach Gertijan Verbeek was quick to snatch up the talented and intimidating attacker in a two-year deal, with the hope to turn him into the next generation of striker.
The Reds struggled last season with their attacking line and Toure has already proven he is just what they need to fix the problem.
The young gun found the net in his A-League debut against Sydney FC in round one.
Luke Ivanovic (Sydney FC)
Another 19-year-old, Ivanovic made his first A-League appearance with Sydney last season against the Central Coast Mariners.
Since then Ivanovic has had a rapid rise to secure a key position in Sydney’s wings.
Playing 11 matches in 2018/19 and locking in senior goals, Ivanovic should have a greater opportunity this season to continue to grow his talents and reputation.
Dylan Wenzel-Halls (Brisbane Roar)
Despite Roar’s catastrophic 2018/19 season, judging Wenzel-Halls’ talent in that context is a disservice to his talent.
The 21-year-old joined the Roar last season and was a rare highlight in their disastrous campaign. Wenzel-Halls managed 20 appearances and scored five goals in his maiden season.
The energetic and competitive nature of his attacks saw him net 23 goals in 11 matches – including seven in one match while playing in the Queensland NPL.
Under new coach Robbie Fowler, the Ipswich born attacker may be able to show the league just how capable his talents are.
Sam Silvera (Central Coast Mariners)
Rising through the youth ranks at the Western Sydney Wanderers, Silvera is one of the most-watched young players in the A-League this season.
Silvera has had an impressive start to the season, with a great game against Hume City in the FFA Cup. Silvera is skilled enough to help the Mariners have an improved season.
Compared to Daniel Arzani, the 19-year-old’s future looks bright. Silvera’s style of play is silky and fluid, with precise passes and dangerous striking abilities.
Sebastian Pasquali (Western United)
There is no doubting the quality of a young player when both Ajax and Juventus expressed interested in Pasquali while he was still in school.
The now 19-year-old from Wangaratta made his unofficial senior debut for Melbourne Victory in the 2016 International Champions Cup against Juventus in a standout performance, scoring the winning kick in a 4–3 penalty victory.
He later signed a two-year deal in November 2016 with Ajax.
Technically gifted, speedy and agile, it’s no surprise he was picked up by newcomers United and will be a key asset to their front line.
Feature image credit: Ngau Kai Yan
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