With the Premier League making its long-awaited return this weekend, we take a look at FIVE players who could make a real impact for their clubs this season.
Evan Ferguson – Brighton
At just 18 years of age, Evan Ferguson already has a growing list of admirers with the Brighton forward showing a great deal of promise during his breakthrough year last term.
His physicality makes him a nightmare to play against and the Republic of Ireland international is certainly one to keep a close eye on in 2023/24.
Ferguson is fully expected to benefit from Roberto De Zerbi’s free-flowing, attack-minded style of play and the forward will be aiming for at least double figures in the Premier League this season.
Rasmus Hojland – Manchester United
Manchester United’s latest high-profile acquisition will not be afforded much time to bed himself in to his new surroundings as Erik ten Hag will be hoping for an instant impact from his new Danish forward.
Still only 20, Hojland was a major hit at Atalanta in Serie A for his all-round contribution and his meteoric rise culminating in the move to Old Trafford, will have United fans quietly anticipating a big impact.
United have been desperately searching for more quality at the top end of the pitch and Hojland’s arrival is a signal of intent as Ten Hag sets about building on last season’s improvement.
Levi Colwill – Chelsea
Identified by Mauricio Pochettino as one of the standout performers on Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States, Levi Colwill returns to Stamford Bridge with the expectation of a very bright future at the club.
The 20-year-old was hugely impressive on loan at Brighton last season with the Seagulls desperate to turn the move into a permanent deal.
Pochettino’s guarantee of a first-team place was too good an opportunity to turn down and Colwill subsequently snubbed a return to the Amex to establish himself at the heart of the Blues’ back four.
Jurrien Timber – Arsenal
Jurrien Timber’s hugely impressive performance against Manchester City in the Community Shield has left many wondering whether the Dutch international may in fact be Arsenal’s most important summer signing.
The versatile defender has electric pace and with Mikel Arteta’s system giving him the license to get forward, it makes the 22-year-old an exciting prospect and his arrival could take Arsenal a step closer to that elusive first Premier League title in nearly two decades.
At just £34m, Timber already looks remarkably good value and on first impressions, he is expected to play a key role in both the Premier League and Champions League.
Cole Palmer – Manchester City
Part of England’s successful under-21 side at Euro 2023, Cole Palmer has been on the fringes of the Manchester City first team for a while and is hugely admired by Pep Guardiola.
The City manager has so far relented against sending the 21-year-old out on loan and his decision has already been merited this season after the youngster’s brilliant opening goal in the Community Shield.
The departure of Riyad Mahrez presents Palmer with an opportunity to stake a claim for a regular starting position at City and with the support of Guardiola, the attacking midfield is certainly worth keeping an eye on this season.
