The 2024/2025 Premier League season introduces several exciting new faces in the top six teams, with key signings and rising stars poised to make a significant impact. This article delves into these players’ backgrounds, their potential influence on their teams, and what fans can expect from these exciting talents in the coming season. With clubs like Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Aston Villa bolstering their squads, the Premier League is set for a thrilling season of fierce competition.
1. Federico Chiesa – Liverpool
Liverpool made a marquee signing by bringing in Italian winger Federico Chiesa from Juventus, a move that has excited fans and pundits alike. Chiesa, known for his blistering pace, technical ability, and relentless work rate, is expected to be a key figure in Liverpool’s attack. His versatility allows him to play across the front three, which fits perfectly with Jürgen Klopp’s high-pressing style and fluid attacking system.
Chiesa’s ability to both score and create opportunities will relieve some of the pressure on Liverpool’s talisman Mohamed Salah, who has carried much of the creative burden in recent years. Chiesa’s strong performances at both club and international levels suggest he is well-equipped to thrive in the Premier League. He was instrumental in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph, and his explosive runs down the wing have become his trademark.
Chiesa’s arrival comes as part of Liverpool’s broader ambition to challenge for the Premier League title after a couple of seasons of rebuilding. With Arne Slot now at the helm, Chiesa’s dynamic style of play aligns well with the manager’s tactical philosophy, which emphasizes verticality and pressing. Fans should expect Chiesa to hit the ground running, and he may even be the missing piece to reignite Liverpool’s title challenge.
2. Riccardo Calafiori – Arsenal
Arsenal made waves with the signing of Riccardo Calafiori, a young and talented left-back from AS Roma. Calafiori’s addition to Arsenal’s backline reflects Mikel Arteta’s vision of building a youthful and energetic team capable of playing out from the back and maintaining high defensive intensity.
Calafiori has shown immense potential in Serie A, where his attacking runs and crossing ability stood out. He is defensively solid, but his offensive contributions will be especially valuable in Arteta’s system, which relies heavily on overlapping full-backs to support the attack. Calafiori’s technical ability and speed will complement Arsenal’s front three, providing additional width and depth in their offensive build-up.
Given Kieran Tierney’s injury struggles and departure to Real Sociedad, Calafiori is likely to be a regular starter and could be crucial in Arsenal’s quest to sustain a title challenge. Arteta’s Arsenal is a well-balanced side, and adding a player with Calafiori’s potential enhances their options both defensively and in the final third. He will need time to adapt to the Premier League’s physicality, but the young Italian is expected to flourish under Arteta’s tutelage.
3. Matthijs de Ligt – Manchester United
One of the most significant moves of the summer transfer window was Manchester United’s acquisition of Dutch center-back Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich. United, under Erik ten Hag, have been desperate for defensive reinforcements, and De Ligt’s arrival signals their intent to shore up a backline that has often looked vulnerable in recent seasons.
De Ligt brings with him immense experience despite his young age, having played in top leagues and for elite clubs like Ajax and Juventus before his stint at Bayern. His leadership qualities, physicality, and ball-playing abilities make him an ideal fit for United’s defense. Partnering with Lisandro MartÃnez or Raphael Varane, De Ligt will provide the defensive solidity United need to push for the Premier League title.
His familiarity with Ten Hag’s style of play, stemming from their time together at Ajax, will also help him settle quickly at Old Trafford. De Ligt’s ability to read the game, combined with his aerial prowess, will not only tighten United’s defense but also offer a threat on set pieces. After securing the FA Cup in 2024, United are determined to challenge for the Premier League title, and De Ligt could be the player who transforms their defensive fortunes.
4. Lény Yoro – Manchester United
Another exciting defensive prospect joining Manchester United is Lény Yoro, a young French center-back from Lille. Yoro’s signing showcases United’s strategy of building for the future while maintaining a strong present. At just 18 years old, Yoro is regarded as one of the brightest defensive talents in Europe, known for his composure, pace, and tactical intelligence.
Though De Ligt is expected to be a regular starter, Yoro will be looking to break into the first team and learn from more experienced defenders like Varane and De Ligt. Ten Hag is known for giving opportunities to young players, and Yoro could be one of the breakthrough stars of the season, especially in domestic cup competitions or when rotation is needed.
Yoro’s physical attributes and reading of the game suggest he could develop into a top defender in the future. He will likely be eased into the Premier League, but his long-term potential is immense, and he will undoubtedly be one to watch as he grows under the guidance of Ten Hag and his coaching staff.
5. Amadou Onana – Aston Villa
Amadou Onana, the Belgian midfielder, was a significant coup for Aston Villa, who are aiming to break into the Premier League’s top six under manager Unai Emery. Onana arrives from Everton, where he impressed with his physicality, ball-winning abilities, and driving runs from midfield. He is a perfect fit for Emery’s high-energy, counter-attacking style and will likely slot into Villa’s midfield alongside Douglas Luiz and John McGinn.
Onana’s presence will provide Villa with more dynamism and defensive cover, allowing their more attacking players like Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby to thrive. Onana is also adept at driving forward with the ball, which will help Villa transition quickly from defense to attack. With his versatility to play both as a holding midfielder or a box-to-box role, he offers tactical flexibility to Emery.
Villa have been gradually building a team capable of competing in Europe, and Onana’s signing is a statement of intent. His physical attributes and ability to dominate the midfield battle will be crucial in Villa’s bid to break into the upper echelons of the Premier League. If Onana can replicate his performances from last season, Villa could be the surprise package of the season.
6. João Félix – Chelsea
Chelsea’s acquisition of João Félix on a permanent deal from Atlético Madrid was one of the more intriguing transfers of the summer. Félix had a mixed loan spell at Stamford Bridge last season, but Chelsea clearly saw enough in him to invest heavily in the Portuguese forward. The Blues, under new management and with a revamped squad, are banking on Félix’s creativity and technical brilliance to help spearhead their attack.
Félix struggled for consistency under Diego Simeone’s more defensive setup at Atlético but will likely thrive in Chelsea’s more attacking system, especially under Mauricio Pochettino, who is known for getting the best out of attacking talents. Félix’s ability to operate between the lines, create chances, and link up play will be crucial as Chelsea look to challenge for silverware this season.
With Chelsea’s bloated squad finally trimmed and focused on key areas, Félix is expected to play a central role in their attacking play. His versatility allows him to play as a false nine, attacking midfielder, or winger, giving Pochettino tactical flexibility. If Félix can find his form, he could finally fulfill the potential that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents.
The 2024/2025 Premier League season will be defined by the performances of new signings and emerging talents. Players like Chiesa, De Ligt, Onana, and Félix are not only capable of elevating their respective teams but could also shift the balance of power in the league. As these new faces settle into their roles, the battle for the top six promises to be as competitive and unpredictable as ever, with each team striving to make their mark on the season. Fans should keep an eye on these key players as they have the potential to light up the Premier League with their talents.
