Guardian's Next Generation list gives Jupiler Pro League three rising stars

has released its annual Next Generation 2026 list, naming sixty of the world’s most promising footballers. The Jupiler Pro League is represented by three players – Anderlecht forward Joshua Nga Kana, Antwerp midfielder Xander Dierckx and Club Brugge’s Tian Nai Koren.

Guardian's Next Generation 2026 list

The British newspaper compiled a list with sixty youngsters it deems the brightest of their generation. The compilation, titled “Next Generation 2026”, aims to spotlight emerging talent from across the globe. Inclusion signals that the players have attracted international attention.

Xander Dierckx, a Belgian U17 international, has already featured prominently for Antwerp’s first team. He made twenty‑three appearances last season and has amassed more than four hundred minutes this campaign, often starting matches. Transfermarkt values him at €3 million, reflecting his growing reputation.

Joshua Nga Kana, a Belgian U19 international, splits his time between the RSCA Futures side and Anderlecht’s senior squad. He netted his first professional goal in August against La Louvière. His market value is estimated at €1.2 million, underscoring his early promise.

Three Belgian league players earn the nod

Tian Nai Koren, a product of Club Brugge’s academy, completes the trio of Jupiler Pro League representatives. While still developing, his inclusion alongside Dierckx and Kana highlights the league’s commitment to nurturing home‑grown talent. For the Jupiler Pro League, having three players on list provides a valuable showcase for its youth development programmes. The exposure reinforces Belgium’s reputation for producing quality prospects beyond its borders.

’s endorsement does not guarantee a glittering career, and all three youngsters still have a long road ahead. Their progress will be closely monitored as they aim to translate potential into senior success.

’s selection spans continents, featuring talents from Europe, South America and Africa, underscoring the publication’s worldwide scouting network. Its reputation for identifying future stars adds weight to the honour of being named among the sixty.