Reigan Heskey has stepped firmly into the global spotlight after a series of outstanding displays for England at the U17 World Cup in Qatar performances that have marked him as one of the tournament’s brightest young stars and a major prospect for the future of English football.
The son of former England international Emile Heskey, Reigan has embraced the weight of expectation without hesitation, turning in performances defined not by his surname, but by his own flair, intelligence and impact in the final third.
A breakout tournament for England’s newest star
England’s opening games in Qatar showcased a forward line brimming with creativity, but it was Reigan who consistently rose above the rest.
In the emphatic 8–1 victory over Haiti, he delivered a complete attacking performance, registering one goal and three assists, dictating play with a calmness rarely seen at his age.
He followed that with another standout display against South Korea, scoring in his third consecutive match as England secured a controlled 2–0 win and safely progressed into the knockout stages.
FIFA later listed him among the group-stage stars of the tournament, praising his decision-making, movement and growing influence on England’s attacking patterns. For many watching, it was confirmation that a new Heskey had arrived — and was ready to write his own story.
Carving his own path
While comparisons with his father are inevitable, Reigan’s style is distinct.
Emile Heskey — a Premier League icon and 62-cap England international — built his reputation on power, hold-up play and unselfish forward work. Reigan, by contrast, offers a blend of physicality and finesse, capable of drifting wide, driving past defenders and creating chances with sharp, instinctive play.
Those who have followed his development at Manchester City’s academy speak highly of his maturity, professionalism and appetite to grow. That hunger was clear in Qatar, where he showed he could handle pressure, pace and the tactical demands of elite youth football.
Proud heritage, new identity
Emile Heskey has watched on proudly, offering support while allowing his son to steer his own journey. Speaking earlier this season, the former England striker noted that Reigan “plays differently” and is “very much his own player.”
That distinction is becoming clearer by the week.
Reigan’s World Cup form didn’t just underline his potential, it accelerated it. He is now seen as one of the most promising forwards in England’s youth setup, with a natural pathway emerging through Manchester City’s development ranks and toward England’s U18 and U19 squads.
What comes next for England’s rising talent
For Reigan, the next steps are about maintaining momentum:
Pushing for more minutes at Manchester City U21 level
Transitioning his U17 success into senior youth football
Continuing to refine his movement, link-up play and finishing
Building on his confidence from Qatar to cement his place as a leading young forward
With his performances in Qatar, Reigan Heskey has made something clear: he is no longer simply following in his father’s footsteps he is striding into the game with a presence and potential all his own.
And if his U17 World Cup displays are anything to go by, England may have unearthed their next major attacking talent.
