As the countdown to the 2025/26 Premier League campaign winds down, anticipation is rising. Once again, we’ve handpicked eight players we can’t wait to watch this season, names that promise drama, flair, and maybe even a few surprises.
Last year’s list had its hits and misses. Jurriën Timber and Adam Wharton impressed, while Christopher Nkunku battled injuries and Leif Davis saw relegation. This time, we’re back with a fresh lineup, focusing less on the usual suspects like Erling Haaland or Bukayo Saka, and more on intriguing talents you might not expect.
So, settle in. Here are eight players we’re watching closely this season.
Martín Zubimendi (Arsenal)
Arsenal have flirted with greatness for three straight seasons but silverware still eludes them. Enter Martín Zubimendi, a midfield technician with sharp vision and smart feet. He’s not your typical ball-winner, but his ability to recover possession and instantly turn defence into attack could be what pushes Mikel Arteta’s side over the edge.
Despite lacking physical dominance, Zubimendi rarely loses duels and boasts one of La Liga’s best records for splitting defences with pinpoint passes. Arsenal’s title dreams could hinge on how quickly he settles in.
Charalampos Kostoulas (Brighton)
Brighton don’t throw around £30m lightly, especially not for a teenager with limited first-team minutes. But Charalampos Kostoulas, just 18, isn’t your average youngster. Versatile, composed, and already a Europa League regular with Olympiakos, he’s most dangerous in the opposition box with a knack for finding space and testing goalkeepers.
He led Greece’s top division in penalty box shots last season and works tirelessly out of possession. Brighton might have found their next gem.
Marcus Edwards (Burnley)
Almost a decade after being dubbed the “next Messi” by Mauricio Pochettino, Marcus Edwards is finally back in the Premier League, this time with Burnley.
His journey has taken him through the Netherlands and Portugal, shining at Sporting CP before arriving in the Championship last season. He didn’t set the world alight during his first months at Burnley, but with regular minutes under his belt, he now has the perfect chance to announce himself in England’s top flight.
Fittingly, Burnley’s season opener is at Tottenham, the club where it all began for him.
Rayan Cherki (Manchester City)
City’s signing of Rayan Cherki raised eyebrows. A flair-filled playmaker who often ignores his defensive duties? That’s risky business in Pep Guardiola’s world.
But with Cherki’s creative stats off the charts, there’s no denying his talent. He created more chances per 90 than any player across Europe’s top five leagues last season and led the charts for expected assists. If Pep can mould him into a more disciplined player without dulling his spark, we could witness something special.
Amad Diallo (Manchester United)
Manchester United endured a miserable 2024/25 season, but one positive was Amad Diallo. Energetic, brave, and constantly looking to take on defenders, he was one of the few players who shone after Ruben Amorim took over.
With Bryan Mbeumo now added to the squad, Amad may have to share the attacking workload or even shift to wing-back. Regardless of where he plays, his fearless approach and direct style have made him a fan favourite at Old Trafford.
Florian Wirtz (Liverpool)
Liverpool broke the bank to sign Florian Wirtz, and it’s easy to see why. The German playmaker was sensational for Bayer Leverkusen during their unbeaten Bundesliga title-winning campaign and racked up 18 goals and 19 assists across all competitions that year.
Even in a slightly less dominant 2024/25 season, Wirtz remained one of Europe’s top creators. He’s creative, hard-working, and loves to operate between the lines. With Salah, Ekitiké, and possibly Isak to link up with, Wirtz could elevate Liverpool’s attack to terrifying new heights.
Roméo Lavia (Chelsea)
Roméo Lavia’s time at Chelsea has been frustrating. Injury setbacks have robbed him of consistency and minutes, but the 2025/26 season could be his breakout.
When fit, Lavia offers the rare blend of tenacity and technical brilliance. He’s strong in duels, secure under pressure, and completes a high percentage of passes even when tightly marked. Chelsea fans will be hoping this is the year he finally gets a clean run.
Chris Rigg (Sunderland)
Of all the promoted teams, Sunderland have generated the most buzz thanks to their ambitious transfer window. One of their brightest young stars is Chris Rigg.
Just a teenager, Rigg plays with remarkable maturity. Add that to the arrival of experienced figures like Granit Xhaka, and Sunderland may have the perfect environment for him to thrive. If Rigg can hold his own in midfield this season, it could mark the start of something very big for both club and player.
Let the new season begin.
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