# Next Generation 2021: slow and steady wins

> Two players from 2021 Next Gen class show how early success doesn't guarantee long-term success.
- Title: Next Generation 2021: slow and steady wins · the Guardian
- Summary: Two players from 2021 Next Gen class show how early success doesn't guarantee long-term success. Youssoufa Moukoko and Jack Hinshelwood, both picked in 2021…
- Keywords: youssoufa moukoko, jack hinshelwood, next generation 2021, borussia dortmund, brighton, premier league, world cup, netherlands, corum, transfermarkt, sports, Next
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/sep/30/next-generation-2021-why-slow-and-steady-sometimes-wins-the-race
- Published: 2026-09-30T10:00:24+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: youssoufa moukoko, jack hinshelwood, next generation 2021, borussia dortmund, brighton, premier league, world cup, netherlands, corum, transfermarkt, sports
## 2021 Next Gen picks
In 2021, the Guardian picked 80 players globally with potential to make it in world football.
## Youssoufa Moukoko
Borussia Dortmund’s Moukoko, 16 years old in 2021, became youngest to play in Bundesliga at 16 years and one day.
## Jack Hinshelwood
Brighton’s Hinshelwood, 17 years old in 2021, was profiled as a player not ready for top-flight football.
## Moukoko’s early career
Moukoko played for Germany at the 2022 World Cup but struggled with injuries and competition from Erling Haaland.
## Hinshelwood’s progress
Hinshelwood made 67 Premier League appearances and was on Thomas Tuchel’s 2026 World Cup longlist.
## Moukoko’s current status
Moukoko plays for Corum in the Turkish top flight on loan from Copenhagen with a market value of €5m.
## Hinshelwood’s current status
Hinshelwood has a market value of €28m and is still with Brighton despite a frustrating ankle injury.
## Different paths
Moukoko broke through early while Hinshelwood developed at a slower pace, both achieving success without choosing their paths.
## Key takeaway

Youssoufa Moukoko and Jack Hinshelwood, both picked in 2021, developed at different paces despite early promise.