Steven Gerrard Claims Michael Owen Outshone Yamal, Mbappé as Teenagers

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has praised Michael Owen as a superior teenage talent compared to current Ballon d'Or contenders Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe. Owen, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2001 at age 22, scored 40 goals in 79 Premier League matches before turning 20, holding records for teenage goal-scoring that remain unmatched. Gerrard, who played alongside Owen at Liverpool from 1998 to 2004, acknowledged the incredible abilities of Yamal and Mbappe but emphasized the respect owed to Owen's achievements as a teenager. The 2025 Ballon d'Or race includes several Liverpool players, such as Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister, and newcomer Florian Wirtz, with Alisson Becker and coach Arne Slot also nominated for other awards. Despite the new talents emerging, Gerrard's remarks highlight the lasting impact Owen had as a young star in Liverpool's history. Liverpool is currently in a strong position with a star-studded squad under Arne Slot, aiming to reclaim the Premier League title.