Group C:
Brazil – Roberto Firmino (Hoffenheim)
Still only 23 and already one of the most exciting prospects on the planet. A formidable forward who will most likely be used as a central striker by Brazil, he’s scored 49 goals in 151 games for Hoffenheim since making his debut in 2011. He’s also netted twice in his first four appearances for his country, against Austria and Chile.
Colombia – Carlos Bacca (Sevilla)
Forget Radamel Falcao and Jackson Martinez – this is the hero of Sevilla’s back-to-back Europa League triumphs. He’s really come into his prime late. He might be 28 but he’s only now hitting the peak of his career. He’s netted 49 goals in 106 games over the last two seasons, with 28 of those coming in the previous campaign.
Peru – Yordy Reyna (Red Bull Salzburg)
Another youngster, this 21-year-old was only a bit-part player in Austria this year but showed enough during a series of loan spells to suggest that there is a talent there to nurture. He’d bring some much needed width to our squad and judging by his record he’ll grab his fair share of goals as well.
Venezuela – Salomon Rondon (Zenit Saint Petersburg)
This 25-year-old is the latest striker to make this list. He’s scored 28 goals in just 57 games for Zenit, who he joined last year, and that followed an equally impressive record for Rubin Kazan, where he banged in 25 in 56 matches. The former Malaga man has not failed to reach double figures for any club since the 2008-09 campaign.
