Scouting Report: Artem Stepanov’s Rise Through Leverkusen’s Ranks
The Next Erling Haaland in the Making? Youngest Ukrainian ever to play a Champions League match. Youngest player ever to represent Leverkusen in the competition. What's next?
At just 17, Artem Stepanov made a significant leap in his young career, marking his senior debut for Bayer Leverkusen on one of football's biggest stages – a UEFA Champions League match against Red Bull Salzburg. His journey to the club has been remarkable, transitioning from a war-torn environment to becoming one of the academy's prospects, with coach Xabi Alonso placing his trust in him for the current season, introducing him to top tier football.
Full Name: Artem Romanovych Stepanov
Date of Birth/Age: August 10, 2007 (17)
Place of Birth: Lutsk, Ukraine
Citizenship: Ukraine
Height: 1.92 m (6’4″)
Position: Centre-Forward
Preferred Foot: Right
Current Team: Bayer 04 Leverkusen U19, Ukraine U19
Joined: July 1, 2024
Contract Expires: June 30, 2027
Market Value: Undisclosed
Similar Profiles: Erling Haaland, Dušan Vlahović
From Shakhtar to Leverkusen
Born on August 10, 2007, in Ukraine, Stepanov began his footballing journey at Shakhtar Donetsk's academy. However, the Russian invasion forced him to flee his homeland. After trials with Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen, he chose the latter, joining Die Werkself in the summer of 2022 at the age of 15.
Since then, Stepanov has dazzled at every level of Leverkusen’s youth system, building his way up to his first pro contract. His 2022/23 campaign with the U17s saw him register eight goals and four assists in 21 appearances, but it was his explosive 19-goal haul the following season that cemented his reputation as a top prospect. Now playing for the U19s, he’s already racked up 11 goals and four assists across domestic and UEFA Youth League competitions. Eventually, in recognition of his potential, Stepanov signed a professional contract in January 2024, tying him to Leverkusen until 2027.
Senior Team Opportunity
Stepanov's talent was evident early on, and in September 2023, he made his senior debut for Bayer Leverkusen during a friendly against Alemannia. In the autumn of 2024, following several key injuries to forwards like Victor Boniface and Amine Adli, Stepanov was called up to the first team by head coach Xabi Alonso. His competitive debut came in the UEFA Champions League against Red Bull Salzburg, where he made an unforgettable appearance as a substitute in the 73rd minute. At just 17 years, 3 months, and 16 days, Stepanov became the youngest Ukrainian to ever play in the Champions League, breaking Dmytro Chygrynskiy’s record. He also became the youngest Bayer Leverkusen player in the competition, surpassing Kai Havertz's previous achievement.
Playing Style, Role and Potential
Stepanov epitomizes the archetype of a complete forward, standing an impressive 6'4" with a commanding physical presence. His aerial prowess stands out, as he skillfully utilizes his strength to outmuscle defenders and convert aerial opportunities successfully. In addition to his strength, Stepanov showcases exceptional goal-scoring instincts, blending precise finishing with intelligent, well-timed runs that allow him to exploit defensive vulnerabilities with ease. His acceleration and pace are remarkable for a player of his size, allowing him to stretch defenses and make dangerous runs in behind. Drawing parallels to forwards like Erling Haaland and Dušan Vlahović, Stepanov’s mix of physicality, athleticism, and positional intelligence positions him as a striker with the tools to dominate in and around the box. These attributes determine his potential to develop into a top-tier attacking talent, and brings a very modern option up front.
Strengths:
Physical Dominance: Stepanov leverages his towering frame and exceptional strength to dominate in physical contests. His ability to shield the ball, overpower defenders, and consistently win aerial duels is a defining aspect of his playing style.
Finishing: An exceptional goal scorer with a natural knack for finding the back of the net from various positions in the box. His ball-striking ability, whether with his feet or head, is outstanding, and he consistently finishes chances with clinical precision.
Aerial Threat: Stepanov is a dominant presence in aerial duels, utilizing his height and impeccable timing to outmuscle defenders. He consistently poses a threat with his headers from set-pieces and crosses. As he continues to develop, Stepanov’s aerial ability is likely to grow, making him an even greater force in the box.
Explosively pacy for his size: Despite his imposing stature, Stepanov surprises with his speed. His physical presence doesn’t hinder his ability to swiftly navigate the pitch, as he combines his strength with a surprising speed, making him a constant threat on counter-attacks and when the team is pressing high up the pitch.
Relentless High-Pressing: Since his youth days at Shakhtar, Stepanov has demonstrated an admirable work ethic and commitment to defensive responsibilities. He shows determination pressing opponents, applying relentless pressure to disrupt their build-up play. Whether tracking back to support his teammates or forcing hurried decisions in advanced areas, Stepanov’s aggressive approach and tenacity in regaining possession creates opportunities for his team to seize control of the game.
Strong Link-up Play: Stepanov is drilled well in link-up play, showcasing excellent understanding and awareness when combining with midfielders and the striker next to him. He is adept at making quick passes, helping to create fluid attacking moves and contribute to the build-up.
Weaknesses:
Composure & Ruthlessness in High-Pressure Situations: Stepanov’s youthful exuberance occasionally translates into a lack of composure in critical moments. This is particularly evident in high-pressure scenarios, where his decision-making and finishing can falter under stress.
Shot Variety: While he is clinical finisher within the box, his ability to shoot from distance remains a work in progress. His attempts from outside the box are less consistent, often lacking the precision and power seen in his efforts closer to goal. As a target man, he excels in converting chances in the penalty area, but his long-range shooting still requires further refinement.
Over-reliance on Physical Attributes: Stepanov is a striker whose game relies significantly on his pace and physicality. However, when up against well-organized defenses, low blocks, or in situations where his physical attributes are less effective, he can find it challenging to make an impact.
Gaffer’s Words
“Playing every two or three days is very demanding physically for our players. In the current situation, we have to make efficient decisions and also be creative,” said Xabi Alonso of Stepanov's involvement with the senior team.
Career Projection
Stepanov’s rise has not gone unnoticed by his senior teammates. For example, Granit Xhaka, a key figure at Bayer Leverkusen, spoke highly of the young striker, noting his impressive statistics in the U19s. Xhaka also highlighted Stepanov’s quick adaptation to life in Germany, his strong understanding of the language, and his grounded and humble attitude, which has made him a promising prospect in the Leverkusen squad.
According to some Ukrainian journalists, there’s growing speculation that Stepanov could switch national allegiances and represent Germany. Given his rapid development in the Bundesliga and his connection with the German football environment, such a move may not be far off.
GRADING
Current Ability
A club/level of club where the player has the qualities to play at least 70% of available minutes right now.
5/10 — A regular starter in a Top 5 European League, Low/Mid-Table Club
FC Augsburg
Montpellier
1. FC Heidenheim
Potential Ability
A club/level of club where the player has the qualities to play at least 70% of available minutes at his career peak.
8.5/10 — A Regular Starter at an Elite European Club with Title Aspirations
Atlético Madrid
Tottenham Hotspur
Juventus