AFCON 2025
At just 17, Artem Stepanov is quickly emerging as one of Europe’s most promising young forwards.
The Ukrainian striker, who has been turning heads at Bayer Leverkusen, is already being tipped for a breakthrough season and his name is gaining attention beyond Germany.
Here’s what you should know about the rising talent.
1. A Record-Breaking Talent With a Towering Presence
Artem Stepanov was born on August 10, 2007, in Lutsk, Ukraine. After developing through the academies of Volyn Lutsk and Shakhtar Donetsk, he made a bold move to Bayer Leverkusen’s youth system in 2022, just before turning 15.
Standing at 1.92 meters, Stepanov brings a classic centre-forward profile, dominant in the air, capable of holding up play, and lethal in front of goal. His physical maturity and composure on the ball have drawn comparisons to some of Europe’s top strikers.
In November 2024, he made history by becoming the youngest Ukrainian to feature in a UEFA Champions League match, debuting in a group-stage win over Red Bull Salzburg at just 17 years old. It was a milestone moment that confirmed Leverkusen’s faith in his potential.
2. A Long-Term Investment and a Key Loan Move
Recognizing his rapid development, Bayer Leverkusen extended Stepanov’s contract in January 2025, tying him to the club until June 2027. The decision came after an outstanding run in the U19 Bundesliga, where he scored 10 goals in just 11 appearances, as well as strong showings in the UEFA Youth League.
However, to accelerate his path to first-team football, Leverkusen opted to send him on loan to 2. Bundesliga side 1. FC Nürnberg for the 2025–26 season.
Under the guidance of legendary German striker Miroslav Klose, Stepanov is expected to gain valuable match experience in a competitive environment that will test and shape his readiness for top-level football.
3. A Rising Star, But Not Without Controversy
While his club career is trending upwards, Stepanov’s relationship with Ukraine’s national team setup has been more complicated.
He has represented the country at various youth levels, including the U16, U17, and U19 sides and has shown consistent scoring form internationally.
But in March and May 2025, Stepanov declined call-ups to Ukraine’s U20 national team. Reports suggest he was unhappy with comments made by head coach Oleksandr Mykhailychenko and chose to skip multiple camps, despite receiving official invitations.
His decision sparked debate within Ukrainian football circles, raising questions about potential disciplinary measures and his long-term future with the national team.
