England forward Michelle Agyemang, 19, has been shortlisted for the Women’s Kopa Trophy at this year’s Ballon d’Or awards, cementing her status as one of football’s brightest young stars.
The Arsenal striker, who spent last season on loan at Brighton in the Women’s Super League, scored five goals in 22 appearances for the Seagulls.
But it was her electrifying performances at Euro 2025 that propelled her to international recognition. Agyemang netted crucial equalisers against Sweden and Italy in the knockout stages before being crowned Young Player of the Tournament.
She now stands among the top five contenders for the Women’s Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best under-21 female footballer in the world.
Her England teammate Hannah Hampton has been nominated for the Yachine Trophy, recognising the best women’s goalkeeper. Hampton, 24, was a standout for Chelsea last season and played a pivotal role in the Lionesses’ Euros triumph, notably making two match-winning saves in the penalty shoot-out final against Spain.
The men’s Kopa Trophy shortlist also features Myles Lewis-Skelly, following his breakout campaign with Arsenal. The remaining Ballon d’Or nominees will be revealed later today.
