The need for soccer at the Olympics might be a topic that that is hotly debated, but what cannot be denied is the chance for supporters to witness some of the most promising players in action in the under-23 competition, that allows three overage players per team.
Keeping that in mind, let's take a look at some of the youngsters that might light-up the Olympics and mark their entry into world stardom.
Neymar: Everybody knows about this kid by now. The Santos forward is considered by many to be on par with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo - with his biggest supporter being the legendary Pele. The Olympics will give Neymar the chance to showcase his skills in front of a worldwide audience, giving everyone a chance to decide whether the talented striker is the real deal or not.
Iker Muniain: Spain are the undisputed champions in international soccer right now. The senior team have not only captured three back-to-back titles in the Euro 2008, World Cup 2010 and Euro 2012, Spain also recently won the under-19 European championships, after lifting the under-21 title last year.
One, of the many, players to look out for in the Olympic squad will be Muniain. The Athletic Bilbao winger is a joy to watch with the ball at his feet, and the "Spanish Messi" as he is known, is sure to capture the imagination of the soccer world.
Javier Aquino: Mexico have the habit of producing one talented youngster after another, with the likes of Javier Hernandez, Carlos Vela and the Dos Santos brothers already making their mark.
Another player who could make a name for himself is winger Aquino. The left-footed wide man has the technical ability and the pace to beat defenders, and the Mexico team will look to 22-yrear-old, who plays for Cruz Azul, to provide assists from wide areas.
Gaston Ramirez: The Olympic squad of Uruguay is flooded with talented players like Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani to name a few; but the player that could take home all the plaudits could be the playmaker from Italian club Bologna.
Ramirez had an outstanding season for his club last season, leading to interest from some of the top clubs in Europe, including Manchester City and Liverpool. The classy playmaker, who has an eye for a perfect through pass as well as a penchant for scoring important goals, will have the perfect platform at the Olympics, to show just why he is grabbing so much attention in Europe.
Isco: Such is Spain's strength that it is impossible not to include another player or two to the list. The Malaga playmaker has been termed by some as the most talented player of his generation.
Isco - full name Francisco Roman Alarcon Suarez - is an attacking midfielder capable of playing across the field and the 20-year-old has already attracted serious attention from Barcelona. A product of Valencia's youth system, the youngster is tipped to have a bright future and could kick on to greater things with a good show at the Olympics.
