At just 19 years old, Désiré Doué is already making waves as one of the most exciting talents in European football. His swift rise from Stade Rennais’ academy to a key player at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has sparked conversations about his potential to be among the game’s legends.
While it might be a bit early to call him the “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT), Doué’s journey certainly hints that he could be heading in that direction.
All of this hype won’t distract him whilst he is getting ready to face Inter Milan with his PSG teammates in the UEFA Champions League Final on Saturday the 31st May. Current odds can be found on many of the bookmakers on this list, and while the betting doesn’t seem to favour him as a first goal scorer of the match, Doué is a rising star.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Doué kicked off his football adventure at Rennes, joining the youth academy when he was just five. He burst onto the professional scene in August 2022, making headlines as the first player born in 2005 to score in one of Europe’s top five leagues. His standout performances in both domestic and European matches quickly caught the eye. One of his notable achievements was becoming the youngest French scorer in European club competition, a record that immediately put him on the radar as a player to keep an eye on.
Transition to PSG and Immediate Impact
In the summer of 2024, Doué made a splash with a €50 million transfer to PSG. Even with interest from several elite European clubs, he opted to continue his growth in Ligue 1 under the guidance of Luis Enrique. His debut season with PSG has been nothing short of remarkable. Doué has showcased his versatility, excelling in both midfield and attacking positions.
With 12 goals and 12 assists in 43 appearances, he has emerged as one of the most influential young players in the league. His impressive performances earned him the Ligue 1 Player of the Month award in March 2025, solidifying his reputation as a rising superstar.
Accolades and Achievements
Doué’s rapid ascent in the football world hasn’t gone unnoticed. He snagged the UNFP Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year award for the 2024–25 season, joining an elite group of past winners who have gone on to achieve great things globally.
His unique combination of individual flair and a team-first attitude makes him a truly rare and valuable player in today’s football landscape. So much so that he is set to be one of the star players in the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which will take place in the USA in June.
International Recognition
Doué’s skills have gained attention on the global stage. He was a key player in the France U17 team that clinched the UEFA European Under-17 Championship and played an important role in France’s silver-medal achievement at the 2024 Olympic Games. His debut with the senior national team came in March 2025 during the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, where he made a strong impression in his first appearance. As France ushers in a new wave of talent, Doué is poised to be a vital part of their future triumphs.
Playing Style and Comparisons
Doué’s style of play is an exciting mix of technical skill, physical prowess, and smart tactics. His dribbling and knack for creating scoring chances have drawn comparisons to Neymar, while his athleticism and dedication remind many of Cristiano Ronaldo. However, Doué is keen on establishing his own unique identity, making it clear that he doesn’t want to be a mere imitation of anyone else. What truly distinguishes him is his calmness and decision-making at such a young age. Whether he’s controlling the game from midfield or cutting in to take a shot from the wing, Doué consistently shows a level of maturity that belies his years.
Signs are there
While it might be premature to label Désiré Doué as a future GOAT, the signs are incredibly encouraging. His impressive growth, paired with steady performances both at the club and international levels, suggests he’s on a remarkable path. If he keeps evolving, stays in form, and shines on the big stage, Doué could very well find his name among the legends of the game in the years ahead.
