Ones to Watch: Top Rookie Soccer Cards to Invest in for 2025

The soccer card market is hotter than ever, and rookie cards remain the ultimate way to secure future value.

But which players should collectors and investors keep on their radar in 2025?

We’ve zeroed in on the Top 5 rookie soccer stars from the 2024/25 season who are not just showing promise on the pitch, but also dominating the card market.

These players combine youthful talent, growing club roles, and early collector demand making their rookie cards some of the smartest investments right now.

Top 5 Rookie Soccer Cards to Watch in 2025

1. Geovany Quenda (Sporting CP) — Age: 18

Recent Sales:

• Topps Chrome UEFA Aqua Lava Auto (/199) – $260

• Same card – $182

• Same card – $134

 

2024/25 Performance:
Quenda is becoming a key creative force for Sporting CP, showing impressive dribbling and vision.

At 18, he’s earned increasing minutes in the Primeira Liga, contributing with assists and chances created.

His consistent involvement in first-team matches makes him a promising pick for collectors.

2. Rodrigo Mora (FC Porto) — Age: 18

Recent Sales:

• Topps Chrome UEFA Toppsfractor /52 (raw) – $108

• Topps Chrome UEFA Radiating Rookies SSP – $150

• Topps Chrome Aqua Lava Rookie Autograph (redemption) – £414 (~$520)

 

2024/25 Performance:
Mora is a talented midfielder slowly breaking into Porto’s senior squad.

Under Anselmi, he has become a regular starter, especially after the departure of Wenderson Galeno. 

His cards remain affordable, offering potential upside if he gains more prominence.

3. Endrick (Real Madrid) — Age: 18

Recent Sales:

• Donruss Optic Purple Mojo (/25) PSA 10 – $775

• Same card – $679

• Same card – $446

 

2024/25 Performance:
Endrick is widely regarded as a generational talent, but his playing time with Real Madrid’s first team has been limited this season due to the club’s deep squad and competition for places.

Despite this, he remains highly rated by fans and scouts, and his value is driven more by future potential than current minutes on the pitch.

4. Ethen Nwaneri (Arsenal) — Age: 18

Recent Sales:

• Topps Chrome UEFA Helix SSP – $714

• Same Helix – $352

• Chrome UCC autograph – $173

 

2024/25 Performance:
Nwaneri is making steady progress at Arsenal, having made some appearances in the Premier League despite his young age.

Known for his composure and playmaking skills, he is gaining trust from the coaching staff and has shown glimpses of his potential in competitive matches.

5. Toni Fernandez (FC Barcelona) — Age: 16

Recent Sales:

• Topps Chrome Magenta Lava (/75) – $118

• Other SSP editions trade between $120–$300

 

2024/25 Performance:
Fernandez is an exciting 16-year-old who has recently made his senior debut for Barcelona.

Though still mostly featuring in youth and reserve matches, his early exposure to top-flight football and technical ability have attracted significant attention, boosting his rookie card demand.

Rookie Investment Tips

• Diversify your portfolio: Base rookies offer wide coverage, while parallels and autos offer explosive growth.
• Watch player performance: If a rookie scores or debuts, their value can spike within 24 hours.
• Buy early: Rookie cards are typically cheapest at release.
• Start small: Don’t feel pressure to chase high-end cards immediately. You can build a strong collection with base rookies and low-numbered inserts.
• Use checklists: Keep track of what sets each player appears in. Many rookies are featured across Topps Chrome, Merlin, Donruss, and Panini Prizm.
• Protect your cards: Use penny sleeves and top loaders for all your rookies, even base. Condition matters for resale.
• Stay updated: Follow injury news, transfers, and match stats. Market values react quickly to real-world events.
• Join collector groups: Facebook groups, Discord servers, and local shows are great for learning and trading.

 

Bonus: Chida Cards Invests With You.

At ChidaCards, you’ll find the latest soccer hobby boxes and breaks where these rookies are included !

Stay ahead of the game and start collecting with Chida Cards

Looking to open yourself a sealed hobby box or blaster box? Have a look here

Looking to join a break? Have a look here and start chasing those rookies!

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