FM18 Wonderkids: Top Young Footballers To Sign

Hey football fanatics! Ever sunk hours into Football Manager 2018 (FM18), meticulously building your dream team and scouting the globe for the next big thing? Well, you're in the right place, because we're diving deep into the world of FM18 wonderkids – those young, ridiculously talented players who can transform your squad from mid-table mediocrity to European champions. Finding these gems is a crucial part of any successful FM save, and trust me, the feeling of unearthing a future superstar is second to none. Let's get down to business, shall we?

The Allure of FM18 Wonderkids

So, what's the big deal about wonderkids? Why are we all so obsessed with finding these teenagers and early-20s prodigies? The answer is simple: potential. FM18 wonderkids represent the future of your club. They're players with sky-high potential ability (PA), meaning they can develop into world-class stars with the right training, game time, and a little bit of luck. Signing wonderkids is a strategic move that can pay dividends for years to come. Not only do they bring immediate quality, but they also offer significant resale value. You can develop them, win trophies with them, and then sell them for a massive profit, allowing you to reinvest in your squad and keep the cycle of success going. It's the ultimate football manager's fantasy! The thrill of identifying a player before they become a household name is something that keeps us all hooked. Watching them grow, develop, and eventually dominate the footballing world under your guidance is incredibly satisfying. Plus, let's be honest, it's just plain fun to have a team packed with young, exciting talent. There's a certain buzz that comes with fielding a team full of wonderkids, knowing that you're watching the future of the sport unfold. It's about building a legacy, crafting a team that will be remembered for years to come. The whole process of scouting, negotiating, and nurturing these young talents is a huge part of the game's appeal, turning you into a true architect of footballing greatness. We're talking about players who can change the game, who can elevate your team and make it a force to be reckoned with. And that's what makes the search for FM18 wonderkids so incredibly rewarding, and it's why we're all here, right?

Key Attributes to Look For

Alright, so you're ready to start your scouting mission. But where do you even begin? What attributes should you be looking for in these young prodigies? Well, it depends on the player's position, but there are some key attributes that are generally important for all FM18 wonderkids. First and foremost, you need to assess their current ability (CA) and potential ability (PA). CA represents their current skill level, while PA is the ceiling of their potential. A high PA is the most crucial factor in identifying a wonderkid. But don't just look at the numbers; also consider their personality traits. A player with good determination, work rate, and professionalism is more likely to reach their full potential. These attributes influence their training development and their ability to perform under pressure. For attackers, look for attributes like finishing, composure, dribbling, and pace. These are the skills that will help them score goals and create chances. For midfielders, passing, vision, teamwork, and decisions are critical. They need to be able to dictate the tempo of the game and create opportunities for their teammates. Defenders should have strong tackling, marking, positioning, and anticipation attributes. They need to be able to read the game, win challenges, and organize the defense. Don't neglect mental attributes either. Concentration, decisions, and composure are all essential for performing well in high-pressure situations. A player with good mental attributes will make fewer mistakes and be more likely to make the right decisions under pressure. Remember, it's not just about raw talent; it's about the complete package. A well-rounded player with a good mix of physical, technical, and mental attributes is much more likely to succeed. And, of course, don't forget the importance of scouting reports. Use your scouts to get detailed information on players, including their strengths, weaknesses, and potential. Your scouts can provide valuable insights that will help you make informed decisions about which players to sign. So, do your research, analyze the attributes, and trust your gut. With a little bit of luck and a lot of hard work, you'll be well on your way to discovering the next generation of footballing superstars.

Top FM18 Wonderkids by Position

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here's a rundown of some of the top FM18 wonderkids, broken down by position. Remember, these are just suggestions, and the best players for your team will depend on your tactics, budget, and squad needs. Feel free to explore and discover your own gems!

Goalkeepers

• Gianluigi Donnarumma (AC Milan): The Italian shot-stopper was already a household name in 2018, and he's still a top choice. He has amazing potential and can be the foundation of your defense for years.
• Alban Lafont (Fiorentina): Another young goalkeeper with incredible potential, Lafont is a solid option if you're looking for a future star between the sticks.

Defenders

• Matthijs de Ligt (Ajax): De Ligt was arguably the best young defender in the game at the time. A rock at the back with a high PA, he’s a must-buy if you can get him.
• Dayot Upamecano (RB Leipzig): An absolute beast of a center-back, Upamecano is strong, fast, and has the potential to become one of the best defenders in the world. He's a solid, reliable choice in defense.
• Theo Hernandez (Real Madrid, on loan at Real Sociedad): A dynamic left-back with excellent pace and attacking ability, Hernandez is a great addition to any team.

Midfielders

• Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Germain): Okay, so Mbappe isn't exactly a hidden gem, but his ability to play multiple positions is extremely helpful. He will cost a fortune, but he will score a lot of goals. Need a winger or a striker? Then get Kylian Mbappe!
• Kai Havertz (Bayer Leverkusen): A versatile midfielder with incredible potential, Havertz can play in multiple positions and has the potential to become a world-class player. He is versatile and can bring a lot to your team.
• Frenkie de Jong (Ajax): Another Ajax star, de Jong is a creative midfielder with excellent passing ability. He's perfect for controlling the midfield and dictating the tempo of the game. He can make your midfield shine!

Attackers

• Gabriel Jesus (Manchester City): A proven goalscorer with excellent pace and finishing, Jesus is a fantastic option for your attack. He will score and create opportunities.
• Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid): A young Brazilian winger with incredible pace, dribbling, and flair, Vinícius is a joy to watch and a nightmare for defenders. He's exciting, talented, and a great addition to your team.
• Justin Kluivert (Roma): Kluivert, with a high PA, is a pacy winger with excellent dribbling ability. He's a great option for any team looking for attacking firepower.

Remember, scouting is key! Even if a player isn't on this list, they could still be a great fit for your team. Don't be afraid to take a chance on a player with potential, even if they're not a household name yet. And most importantly, have fun! That's what FM is all about, right?

Tips for Successfully Developing Wonderkids

So, you've signed a few of these promising youngsters. Now what? Developing your FM18 wonderkids is just as important as finding them. Here are some tips to help you nurture their talent and turn them into superstars:

1. Provide Game Time: This is arguably the most crucial factor. Young players need consistent game time to develop their attributes and gain experience. Loan them out to a club where they'll get regular playing time if they're not ready for your first team. If they are ready, then play them. Even in the big games!
2. Choose the Right Training Regime: Tailor your training schedules to each player's individual needs. Focus on the attributes that are most important for their position and style of play. Make sure your training facilities are up to par; better facilities mean faster development.
3. Hire the Right Coaches: Your coaching staff is essential for developing your players. Hire coaches with good attributes in areas like attacking, defending, fitness, and tactical knowledge. Look for coaches with a high