Kopa Trophy Winners: Complete List And History
The Kopa Trophy is an annual award presented by France Football to the best-performing male player under the age of 21. Here’s a comprehensive look at the winners and their achievements.
List of Kopa Trophy Winners
- 2018: Kylian Mbappé
- 2019: Matthijs de Ligt
- 2020: Not awarded due to COVID-19 pandemic
- 2021: Pedri
- 2022: Gavi
- 2023: Jude Bellingham
Kylian Mbappé (2018)
Kylian Mbappé won the inaugural Kopa Trophy in 2018. His exceptional performances for Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team, including his role in France's World Cup victory, made him the clear favorite.
Matthijs de Ligt (2019)
In 2019, Matthijs de Ligt secured the trophy after an outstanding season with Ajax and his subsequent transfer to Juventus. De Ligt's leadership and defensive skills were key factors in his win.
Pedri (2021)
Pedri claimed the Kopa Trophy in 2021, thanks to his incredible breakthrough season with FC Barcelona and his impressive performances for the Spanish national team at both Euro 2020 and the Tokyo Olympics.
Gavi (2022)
Gavi won the Kopa Trophy in 2022. His dynamic midfield performances for Barcelona earned him this prestigious award.
Jude Bellingham (2023)
Jude Bellingham secured the Kopa Trophy in 2023, owing to his stellar performances for Borussia Dortmund and his impactful start with Real Madrid. Bellingham's all-around abilities in midfield set him apart.
Significance of the Kopa Trophy
The Kopa Trophy is a prestigious award that identifies and celebrates the best young talent in football. Winning this trophy often signals a player's potential to achieve greatness in their career. It is voted for by former Ballon d'Or winners, adding to its prestige and importance. Recognizing young stars early can drive fan engagement and interest in the sport.
Conclusion
The Kopa Trophy continues to spotlight the brightest young stars in football, and these winners have set a high standard for future recipients. Keep an eye on these players as they continue to shape the future of the sport.