Ones to watch in 2019: From Mauricio Pochettino to young Prithvi Shaw

Sport360 Writers 00:50 02/01/2019
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  • Who will hog the limelight in 2019? Will we see the emergence of a new Usain Bolt or Roger Federer? Will a high profile name fade away in 2019?

    These questions might be bothering sport fans as we enter a new year. Are you one of them? Don’t worry as we have you covered.

    Sport360’s writers have selected the sports personalities who are expected to be in the spotlight. Here they are…

    MATT MONAGHAN

    Mauricio Pochettino’s future

    It’s nice to feel wanted. Especially when, arguably, football’s two grandest clubs are vying for your signature, plus there is always the option of leading a London giant into a brave new era at their staggering new home.

    The decision manager Pochettino makes this summer will define the futures of Real Madrid, Manchester United and current employers Tottenham Hotspur. It will also have a significant ripple effect on the entire football ecosystem. Intrigue awaits in the months ahead.

    AJIT VIJAYKUMAR

    Prithvi Shaw

    The youngster was set to make his mark during the Test series in Australia but twisted his ankle during a warm-up match that ended his Australian dreams. But the supremely talented Test opener seems destined to take Test cricket by storm the moment India’s next Test assignments come up. Mumbai batsman Shaw is the real deal and the Indian management is itching to unleash him on the bigger stage sooner rather than later.

    Prithvi Shaw.NIALL McCAGUE

    Naomi Osaka

    Osaka impressed many not just with her talent but also with the grace with which she handled her stunning win at the US Open final in September. It capped the end to what was a formidable season for the 20-year-old after rising through the WTA Rankings from No68 to No5. The Florida native is mature beyond her years and has the chance to build further on her vast potential at the Australian Open later this month. Want a player to watch in 2019? Look no further.

    BRENDON NETTO

    Diaz and Vinicius Jr Link up at Real

    Brahim Diaz seems destined to leave Man City and could make the switch to Real Madrid. Given the success of Vinicius Jr. this season, Los Blancos may be keen to put more faith in youth. A star-studded attack has grown stale, performing in patches. With Isco falling out of favour, Karim Benzema underwhelming and Gareth Bale struggling with injuries, Diaz may be the man to step up and forge a new-look attack alongside Vinicius and perhaps Marco Asensio.

    SOORAJ KAMATH

    Frenkie De Jong’s new challenge

    Having established himself as one of the best young players in world football, Ajax and Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong is set to test himself at a bigger club next season. Regardless of whether Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Manchester City win the tug of war to secure his signature, the confident 21-year-old will undoubtedly live up to the hype of his world-class abilities.

    ASHISH PETER

    Sandeep Lamichhane’s rise

    The 19-year-old leg-spin sensation had a breakout 2018 as he became the first player from Nepal to earn IPL and BBL contracts. The Aruchaur prodigy has gone from strength to strength with his participation in various franchise T20 leagues around the world but 2019 is set to be an even bigger one for him. He will play in the Pakistan Super League in February and is set to be a key man for Delhi Capitals in the IPL in March.

    CHRIS BAILEY

    Patrick Mahomes

    If you’ve been thinking of an excuse to get into the NFL – or even just diligently avoiding it – Patrick Mahomes is the figure that will lure you into the deep. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback sat out his entire rookie season to learn the ropes. Now he’s reconfiguring them. Outrageous no-look passes, bazooka deep balls and preternatural command of the line of scrimmage – this kid has it all. The second man in history to throw 50 touchdown passes and 5,000 yards, can he guide the Chiefs to a maiden Super Bowl?

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