Explore the most exciting breakout stars in Serie A 2024/25. Meet the young football talents transforming Italy’s top league and the future of European football.

Top Serie A Breakout Stars This Season

The 2024/25 Serie A season has brought a wave of excitement not only through title races and tactical brilliance but also through the emergence of breakout stars who have taken Italian football by storm. These rising talents, many of whom were previously under the radar, are now becoming regular headlines, mesmerizing fans with their performances, and reshaping their teams’ futures.

As Italy continues to re-establish itself as a breeding ground for football brilliance, the rise of young and underrated players signals a shift in club strategies—moving from big-name signings to smart investments in youth and potential.

In this article, we’ll highlight the top breakout stars of the Serie A 2024/25 campaign. These are the names every Pragmatic Play free fan should know—if you don’t already.

1. Matías Soulé (Frosinone / Juventus)

On loan from Juventus, Matías Soulé has been nothing short of electric for Frosinone. The Argentine winger has showcased his flair, technique, and fearlessness throughout the season, quickly becoming the go-to man in attack.

What Makes Him Special?

• Exceptional dribbling in tight spaces

• Confidence to take on defenders 1v1

• Precise delivery and intelligent movement off the ball

With several goals and assists to his name and consistent performances, Soulé is expected to either return to Juventus as a starter or attract major bids from top clubs in Europe.

2. Michael Kayode (Fiorentina)

A product of Fiorentina’s youth system, Michael Kayode has turned heads with his mature displays at right-back. At just 19, he’s already starting regularly and showing all the hallmarks of a future Italian international.

Why He’s on the Rise:

• Calm under pressure with strong positional awareness

• Excellent crossing and overlapping runs

• Strong defensive instincts despite his age

Kayode’s rapid development symbolizes Fiorentina’s commitment to building through youth and has given Italian football a new hope in the full-back department.

3. Albert Guðmundsson (Genoa)

While not entirely unknown before the season, Albert Guðmundsson has exploded into the spotlight in 2024/25. The Icelandic forward has delivered consistent performances, including several match-winning goals.

Key Attributes:

• Versatile attacker (can play winger, false nine, or attacking mid)

• Sharp eye for goal and clinical finishing

• High football IQ and leadership on the pitch

Guðmundsson’s importance to Genoa’s attacking system cannot be overstated. He has become the team’s creative heartbeat and a nightmare for defenders.

4. Simone Pafundi (Udinese)

Touted as the future of Italian football, Simone Pafundi is finally getting regular minutes this season—and he’s taking full advantage of them. The 18-year-old playmaker possesses the kind of creativity rarely seen in players his age.

Standout Qualities:

• Vision and passing range far beyond his years

• Close control and ability to operate in tight spaces

• Natural leadership despite being one of the youngest players on the pitch

While still raw, Pafundi is destined for greatness if he continues this trajectory. His contributions for Udinese are now pivotal.

5. Dean Huijsen (Roma / Juventus)

Another Juventus loanee making waves, Dean Huijsen has added calmness and technical elegance to Roma’s backline. The tall Dutch defender, with Spanish footballing roots, has impressed fans and pundits alike.

Why He’s a Breakout Star:

• Composure on the ball under pressure

• Strong aerial presence and defensive awareness

• Ability to launch attacks from the back

His time at Roma has fast-tracked his development, and Juventus may be tempted to reintegrate him into their senior squad as early as next season.

6. Andrea Colpani (Monza)

At 25, Andrea Colpani may not be a youngster, but this has been his true breakout season. The Monza midfielder has stepped up with goals, assists, and commanding performances that have made him one of the league’s top creative outlets.

What Sets Him Apart:

• Eye for killer passes and through balls

• Stamina and work rate that drives the midfield

• Consistency, game after game

Colpani’s rise is a testament to hard work and perseverance, and he’s now drawing attention from bigger Serie A clubs—and potentially from abroad.

7. Joshua Zirkzee (Bologna)

The Dutch striker has been a revelation at Bologna this season. Joshua Zirkzee, once considered just a Bundesliga prospect, is proving he can be a dominant force in Italian football.

Strengths:

• Technical finishing and ability to score from various angles

• Intelligent movement that opens up space for others

• Physicality and aerial strength

Zirkzee is not just scoring goals—he’s also linking up beautifully with teammates and providing hold-up play rarely seen in players of his age.

8. Fabio Miretti (Juventus)

After seasons of being on the fringes, Fabio Miretti has finally cemented his place in the Juventus midfield. His box-to-box energy and understanding of space have made him indispensable to Max Allegri’s system.

Key Traits:

• Endless work rate and solid defensive contribution

• Intelligent passing and game tempo control

• Confidence in carrying the ball forward

Miretti represents the new generation of Juventus, one that blends traditional Italian grit with modern tactical awareness.

Serie A’s Youth Revolution: A New Era of Football

The 2024/25 Serie A season isn’t just about who wins the title—it’s about witnessing a changing of the guard. These breakout stars represent the future of football, not only in Italy but across Europe. Clubs are learning that investing in smart scouting, youth academies, and player development can yield just as much—if not more—than spending big on established names.

More importantly, these players are reviving excitement around Serie A for global fans. The league, once known for veteran-laden squads and defensive football, is becoming a hotspot for emerging talents who play with flair, courage, and hunger.

Final Thoughts: Names to Remember in Football’s Future

As the season progresses, these breakout stars will be under even greater scrutiny. Some may falter, others will soar—but all have already left a mark on this Serie A campaign. The best part? Many of them are just getting started.

Whether you’re a die-hard Serie A supporter or a neutral football fan, these are the players you’ll be watching in the years to come. So keep their names in mind—they’re shaping the future of football, one game at a time.

⚽ Show Your Support – Celebrate the Spirit of Football

We’ve highlighted the stars of tomorrow rising today in Serie A, but football is nothing without its fans. Keep cheering, keep watching, and most importantly—keep believing in the magic that unfolds every weekend across stadiums in Italy and beyond.

Support the journey. Support the players. Support football.