Bayern Munich young duo shortlisted for Golden Boy award

The 2023/24 campaign was disastrous for Bayern Munich as they didn’t win a single trophy for the first time in more than a decade. However, they managed to get the best out of a couple of young players at the club. Aleksandar Pavlović and Matthys Tel shone for Bayern last season in a chaotic environment.

The young duo has been rewarded for a productive campaign with a nomination for the 2024 Golden Boy Award. The Tuttosport in Italy released the final list of 25 players that were shortlisted for the award.

Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal is the favourite to win this award after his monumental rise with the Spanish club and national team. Yamal played a big role in Spain’s Euro 2024 win in Germany during the summer. However, Pavlović and Tel have a good chance to finish in the top 10 for this award.

Pavlović went strength from strength in his debut season at Bayern

Pavlović made his debut for Bayern at the start of last season. Since Die Roten failed to sign a defensive midfielder in the summer, Thomas Tuchel used Pavlović in the center of the park. The 20-year-old midfielder grabbed these opportunities and delivered composed performances in midfield.

The highlight of the debut season for Pavlović was his composed performance at Santiago Bernabeu in the semi-final of the Champions League. Courtesy of good form for Bayern, Pavlović made his debut for Germany. He would have played at Euros for Germany, but tonsilitis ensured the youngster missed out on a place in the squad.

Pavlović has started the campaign strongly under Vincent Kompany. He is improving with each passing game and cementing his place in the starting XI. The 20-year-old started his first game for Germany in the recently concluded international break.

Mathys Tel thrived in super-sub role for Bayern last season

Mathys Tel made an impact for Bayern from the bench on a consistent basis. The French forward racked up 14 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances for Die Roten last season. Courtesy of incredible output in the final third, Tel was nominated for the 2024 Kopa Trophy.

Bayern consider Tel part of their long-term plans. They secured his future by handing him a new deal earlier this year. The French winger has not enjoyed the best of starts to the season, but he will eventually thrive under Vincent Kompany.

Considering the quality Pavlović and Tel showed on the pitch last season, it is not surprising to see them amongst the best young talents in Europe.