Evaluating the -10 PA Wonderkids in FM22

Only three players have been granted the -10 Potential Ability score in FM22. Let's see how they played in the real world and have they lived up to th

Only three players have been granted the -10 Potential Ability score in FM22. Let's see how they played in the real world and have they lived up to their PA score.

There are certain traditions amongst fans of the Football Manager series. One of the first with any new release is looking for the best young prospects, the “wonderkids” who quite literally have the world at their feet, seemingly destined for greatness at every step throughout our saves.

But no matter how good the FM research team are at evaluating player potential, there have been many famous examples over the years when their predictions never quite worked out. Indeed, making predictions can be tricky business, as anyone who regularly backs teams and players in the real world can attest, even if doing so can add an extra layer of entertainment to the beautiful game as fans.

Obviously, it goes without saying that wagering on sports is a lucrative business for bookmakers. They are always keen to attract our attention, although for our part, it certainly pays to do a little research. Thankfully, there are now resources highlighting the best football betting sites available, underlining where great value odds and offers can be found, based upon expert reviews and reliable user feedback.

Insofar as the fantasy world in Football Manager 2022 is concerned, how accurate were the predictions for the best prospects per the winter update? Only three players were handed -10 PA, amidst the possibility of an ability range between 170 to 200 once fully developed. Let’s take a look at how they performed in the real world, and what the future might hold for these shining lights of the future, ahead of FM23 being released later this year.

Eduardo Camavinga – Real Madrid

Already hailed as one of the best French midfielders of his generation, Eduardo Camavinga was already showcasing his potential ability at Rennes at an early age, before Real Madrid came calling. The Spanish giants reportedly paid a basic fee of €31 million plus add-ons in August 2021, which now seems like quite the bargain, following an excellent first campaign at the club.

Camavinga made 40 appearances in all competitions, never once looking out of place when called upon by his manager Carlo Ancelotti, showcasing exceptional calm and coolness well beyond his tender age. Having won the Spanish Super Cup, LaLiga, and the Champions League during his debut campaign at Real Madrid, the French international is certainly living up to his potential. Don’t be surprised to see a fixed PA well above 180 in FM23.

Ilaix Moriba – RB Leipzig

Like many promising young players who emerge from La Masía, the fabled academy system at FC Barcelona, Ilaix Moriba was considered to be a talent with massive potential. After making his breakthrough in the first team during the 2020-21 campaign, fans and football journalists in Spain regarded him as the long-term successor to Sergio Busquets. However, the Catalan club would fail to see that potential realised in their colours.

Moriba was one of the highest paid youngsters at the club, plus his agents wanted an even bigger deal, which Barcelona couldn’t afford given their precarious financial situation. This forced through the sale to RB Leipzig for around €16 million, although the German club has yet to see the best from their investment. He moved on loan to Valencia in the winter transfer window, largely failing to meet expectations. Another loan move now seems likely, and maybe his PA will drop somewhat in FM23.

Youssoufa Moukoko – Borussia Dortmund

Easily one of the most exciting prospects to appear in Football Manager 2021, added in the winter update, Youssoufa Moukoko was instantly dubbed as the best wonderkid in FM history. In FM22 his emerging talents were recognised with -10 potential, marking him out as one of the best young players available in the game. Already a goal machine at Borussia Dortmund in their youth categories, the now 17-year-old has already made his mark at the senior level.

During just 210 minutes on the pitch in the Bundesliga last season, Moukoko contributed 2 goals and 2 assists, making a total of 16 appearances largely from the bench. Borussia Dortmund have been careful not to overburden the youngster, although following the departure of Erling Haaland, he will be a key player during the 2022-23 campaign. This would indicate his potential remaining at -10 in FM23, as we watch his progress with keen interest, amidst reported interest from several top European clubs.