Players to Watch Out for in the Premier League 2024-25 Season
The 2024-25 Premier League season promises to deliver excitement, with players across various clubs ready to make a significant impact. From seasoned veterans to new signings, this season has many players who could tip the balance in the title race, Champions League spots, and relegation battles. Let’s explore some key players who are set to shine this season.
1. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)
Jurrien Timber was an exciting signing for Arsenal in the summer of 2023, brought in to reinforce their defensive depth. Unfortunately, a major knee injury in his very first league appearance for the Gunners left him sidelined for most of the 2023-24 season. Now, fully fit and eager to prove his worth, Timber is expected to play a vital role in Arsenal’s defense in 2024-25.
A versatile player capable of playing both as a center-back and right-back, Timber fits perfectly into Mikel Arteta’s system, which values fluidity in defense. His ability to contribute in both defense and attack can give Arsenal that extra edge as they seek to dethrone Manchester City. With William Saliba and Ben White already established in Arsenal’s back line, Timber’s return adds quality depth and tactical flexibility. If Arsenal are to finally end their title drought, Timber’s presence could be key in shoring up their defense while adding creativity in transition.
2. Joshua Zirkzee (Manchester United)
Manchester United have long been searching for a striker capable of leading their line, and 2024-25 could be the season when Joshua Zirkzee steps up to become that player. United signed Zirkzee with the intention of grooming him into a prolific frontman, and with Dutch legend Ruud van Nistelrooy now working as the club’s striker coach, the potential for Zirkzee to flourish is immense.
United struggled for consistency up front in the 2023-24 season, with Rasmus Højlund in and out of the team due to injuries. While Højlund still offers a lot of promise, Zirkzee’s rise could give manager Erik ten Hag—also Dutch—more attacking options, especially as he continues to mold United in his vision. Zirkzee has the technical ability, intelligence, and size to thrive in the Premier League, and learning under van Nistelrooy’s mentorship could be the turning point in his career. If United can integrate Zirkzee effectively, he may just become the striker they’ve been missing for years.
3. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
Kevin De Bruyne is entering what could be his final season at Manchester City, and after missing a large portion of the previous season through injury, the Belgian maestro will be eager to go out with a bang. De Bruyne has been a key figure in City’s dominance of English football over the last decade, but with the wear and tear of injuries beginning to take their toll, 2024-25 might mark his swan song.
There’s little doubt that when fit, De Bruyne remains one of the best midfielders in the world. His vision, passing range, and ability to dictate play are unparalleled, and City will need his leadership more than ever as they aim to fend off challengers like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United. With Erling Haaland up front and De Bruyne pulling the strings in midfield, City will be a force once again, and De Bruyne will want to cement his legacy with one last triumphant season.
4. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Mohamed Salah’s relationship with Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp became the subject of speculation toward the end of the 2023-24 season, with rumors of friction between the two. Salah was even dropped from the starting lineup on a few occasions, something that was unthinkable in previous seasons. However, 2024-25 presents Salah with the opportunity to remind everyone why he’s one of the Premier League’s most devastating forwards.
Now entering the latter stages of his career, Salah remains hungry for success, and Liverpool will need his attacking brilliance if they’re to challenge for top honors once more. Having spent the summer mending his relationship with Klopp and refocusing on his game, Salah is keen to silence any doubters. He still possesses the pace, finishing, and footballing intelligence to torment defenses, and Liverpool’s push for the title could hinge on how well Salah performs this season.
5. Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Kaoru Mitoma’s 2023-24 season was heavily disrupted by injuries, but the Japanese winger is back to full fitness and ready to light up the Premier League again. Brighton’s attacking philosophy under Fabian Hürzeler suits Mitoma’s skill set perfectly, and the winger has shown glimpses of his immense potential when healthy.
Mitoma’s pace, dribbling, and ability to take on defenders make him one of the most dangerous wingers in the league. If he can stay fit throughout 2024-25, he could be instrumental in helping Brighton challenge for a European spot. With Hürzeler’s tactical acumen and Mitoma’s individual brilliance, Brighton may once again surprise many of the traditional top six.
6. Kai Havertz (Arsenal)
Kai Havertz’s move to Arsenal in the summer of 2023 raised eyebrows, particularly after a difficult few seasons at Chelsea. However, Mikel Arteta saw untapped potential in the German international, and by the end of the 2023-24 season, it became clear that Havertz was finding his feet in Arsenal’s fluid attacking system.
In the 2024-25 season, Havertz is expected to play a key role, especially with Martin Ødegaard set to miss the opening weeks due to injury. This could see Havertz drop into a deeper role in midfield, showcasing his versatility and football intelligence. Arteta has been using Havertz in a variety of positions, but with better teammates around him, the German could finally show why he was regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting talents when he first arrived in the Premier League.
7. Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)
Bryan Mbeumo has started the 2024-25 season in spectacular form, scoring three goals in Brentford’s first three matches. Mbeumo has quietly become one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers, and if he continues at this rate, it’s likely that bigger clubs will come calling for his services.
The 2024-25 season could very well be Mbeumo’s final campaign at Brentford. His speed, clinical finishing, and ability to create chances have made him a key player for the Bees, and his performances this season could propel him to a higher-profile club by the summer transfer window. Brentford will hope to capitalize on his form as they push for a strong finish in the league, but Mbeumo’s stock is only rising.
8. Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Cole Palmer shocked many with his goal scoring and assists in 2023-24, immediately becoming one of the brightest young talents in the Premier League. His performances have carried into the new season, where he’s already registered one goal and four assists in three games. A knock has ruled him out temporarily, but Palmer is expected to return soon and continue his electric form.
Palmer’s creativity and ability to link play have made him a fan favorite, and under Mauricio Pochettino’s guidance, he could continue to blossom into one of England’s most exciting prospects. If he continues to perform at this level, it will be hard for Chelsea to hold on to him for long, as Europe’s elite will be circling.
The 2024-25 season is shaping up to be one full of intriguing storylines and remarkable talent. Whether it’s young stars looking to make their mark, or veterans with a point to prove, these players will be pivotal in determining the fate of their respective teams in what promises to be another unforgettable Premier League campaign.
