Kopa Trophy Winners: Complete List & History

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The Kopa Trophy is an award presented annually by France Football to the best-performing football player under the age of 21. It is named after Raymond Kopa, the first French player to win the Ballon d'Or. Here is a list of Kopa Trophy winners: — Top Things To Do In London: Your Ultimate Guide

  • 2018: Kylian MbappĂ©
  • 2019: Matthijs de Ligt
  • 2020: Not awarded due to COVID-19 pandemic
  • 2021: Pedri
  • 2022: Gavi
  • 2023: Jude Bellingham

History of the Kopa Trophy

The Kopa Trophy was first awarded in 2018. The winner is selected by a jury composed of the living Ballon d'Or winners. This ensures that the selection process is informed by the expertise of some of the greatest players in football history.

Eligibility and Selection

To be eligible for the Kopa Trophy, a player must be under the age of 21 and play for a European club. The selection criteria focus on the player's performance throughout the year, taking into account their contributions to both club and country.

Significance of the Award

The Kopa Trophy is a prestigious award that recognizes the best young talent in football. Winning the award can be a major boost to a player's career, as it can lead to increased recognition, endorsements, and opportunities.

The Kopa Trophy is a valuable indicator of future success, as many of the winners have gone on to become some of the best players in the world. For example, Kylian Mbappé, the first winner of the award, has since become one of the most prolific goalscorers in the world and a key player for both Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team.

Notable Winners and Their Impact

  • Kylian MbappĂ© (2018): MbappĂ©'s win was largely due to his incredible performances at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he helped France win the tournament.
  • Matthijs de Ligt (2019): De Ligt's commanding performances for Ajax in their Champions League run earned him the trophy.
  • Pedri (2021): Pedri's exceptional season with Barcelona and his contributions to the Spanish national team made him a deserving winner.
  • Gavi (2022): Gavi became the second Barcelona player to win the trophy, showcasing his incredible talent and potential at a young age.
  • Jude Bellingham (2023): His stellar performances for Borussia Dortmund and rapid adaptation to Real Madrid made him a standout choice.

The Future of the Kopa Trophy

The Kopa Trophy is still a relatively new award, but it has quickly become one of the most prestigious awards in football. It is a valuable indicator of future success, and it is sure to continue to be a major talking point in the years to come. — Jon Chiv: The Rising Star You Need To Know

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CTA: Who will be the next Kopa Trophy winner? Share your predictions in the comments below! — XOXO Meaning: The History & Usage Explained