Dutch 19 year old to appear in 2006

Ryan Babel dazled spectators in a World Cup Qualifier against Romania in June last year. Babel entered the match as a substitute for the injured Arjen Robben. Babel promptly put one in the back of the net; securing the Holland victory. Van Basten’s genius proved, Oranje fans rejoiced, and the Ajax board wonder who will bid first: Real Madrid or Chealsea.

Babel will be 19 by the time the World Cup kicks off this summer. It seems that Van Basten intends to show the world what his young star is capable of. Although Babel has resigned with Ajax, a strong performance in Germany could dramatically change his market value. Remember how quickly Manchester United bought Wayne Rooney after Euro 2004.

Perhaps it is too early to speculate transfers, but surely Ryan Babel knows that an inspired performance in Germany could land him at a larger club. Look for Babel to make the most of his minutes in Germany. Even if the Oranje fail to hoist the cup, young stars like Ryan Babel can come out winners.