They may not be in the running for Player of the Season or Golden Boot honors, but these twenty players have been quietly essential for their teams across the Premier League. Whether stepping up in moments of crisis, adapting to new roles, or exceeding expectations, these unlikely standouts have made major impacts in 2024–25.
Arsenal: Mikel Merino
With Gabriel Jesus injured and Kai Havertz sidelined since February, Arsenal’s lack of a striker in January looked costly. Yet Mikel Merino stepped up in remarkable fashion, scoring six league goals—second only to Havertz—and delivering in key victories over Leicester, Chelsea, and Fulham. “Fans will want the club to invest in the summer but Merino has done remarkably well, given he had not played up front since he was nine years old.”
Aston Villa: Youri Tielemans
Despite the £50m arrival of Amadou Onana, Tielemans has become a mainstay in Villa’s midfield, starting all but two of their 50 matches this season. “After scoring against PSG in midweek, he has now contributed to goals in his last four matches.”
Brentford: Keane Lewis-Potter
Once a forward, Lewis-Potter has found his footing as Brentford’s first-choice left-back. Starting 30 of 32 league matches, he’s impressed going forward too, ranking third in successful dribbles for the Bees (35).
Brighton: Jack Hinshelwood
Whether in midfield or either full-back position, Hinshelwood delivers consistency. Brighton’s win rate jumps from 28.6% to 44.4% when he starts, underlining his growing influence.
Bournemouth: Justin Kluivert
In the absence of Dominic Solanke, Kluivert has become Bournemouth’s offensive talisman with 12 goals and six assists. He even bagged a hat-trick in a 4-1 win over his father’s former club. “I followed Newcastle when I was younger,” Kluivert said. “Unfortunately for them, Kluivert now plays for another team.”
Chelsea: Marc Cucurella
Once unsettled at Stamford Bridge, Cucurella is thriving under Enzo Maresca with four league goals to his name. “Winning Euro 2024 with Spain last summer really did wonders for his confidence.”
Crystal Palace: Chris Richards
After Trevoh Chalobah’s mid-season departure, Richards rose to the challenge in Palace’s back three. The American’s perseverance has been vital in a defensive unit that’s stood tall despite recent stumbles.
Everton: Beto
Beto was on the fringes early in the season, but with Calvert-Lewin out, he’s seized his opportunity. “He has only scored six league goals this season but, given that he made just one start before February, few would have expected him to have such a sustained impact.”
Fulham: Sasa Lukic
Sander Berge was supposed to replace João Palhinha, but Lukic emerged as the heart of Fulham’s midfield. “He’s been booked more times (12) than any other player in the league this season – but he is a tenacious tackler who is equally tidy in possession.”
Ipswich: Liam Delap
Eyebrows were raised when Ipswich paid £20m for Delap, but the young striker has responded with 12 goals in a struggling side. “Delap has scored 12 league goals and his performances have attracted interest from Chelsea and Manchester United.”
Leicester: Bilal El Khannouss
Leicester’s season has been a disappointment, but El Khannouss has been a rare bright spot. “His goal contributions have earned five of the Foxes’ dismal tally of 18 points.”
Liverpool: Ryan Gravenberch
Forced into a deeper role when Liverpool missed out on Zubimendi, Gravenberch has shone. “Gravenberch ranks third for interceptions (54) and fourth for possession won in the midfield third (97) in the league this season.”
Manchester City: Mateo Kovacic
Rodri’s long-term injury could have derailed City’s title hopes, but Kovacic has stepped up with poise and precision. “City’s win ratio in the league improves from 27.3% to 61.9% when he starts.”
Manchester United: Casemiro
Written off after Manuel Ugarte’s arrival, Casemiro has proven his value under Ruben Amorim. “Casemiro ranks top for tackles per 90 minutes (5.2) in the league.”
Newcastle United: Jacob Murphy
Murphy has quietly become one of Newcastle’s key creators. “He has provided 11 assists; only Mohamed Salah (18) has more this season. Seven of those assists have been for Isak to score.”
Nottingham Forest: Neco Williams
Despite the arrival of Álex Moreno, Williams has fought back to become Forest’s first-choice full-back. His form has been a key factor in Forest’s European ambitions.
Southampton: Mateus Fernandes
In a difficult season, Fernandes has been a silver lining for Southampton. “The 20-year-old rapidly adjusted to the rigours of English football, with his consistency catching the eye in a painful season for the club.”
Tottenham: Archie Gray
Originally set for Brentford, Gray landed at Spurs and has impressed in a variety of roles. “No matter the position, the 19-year-old has delivered a series of solid showings.”
West Ham: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Leaving Manchester United in search of minutes, Wan-Bissaka has added a new dimension to his game. “He has always been a solid defender but his attacking showings have been a pleasant surprise.”
Wolves: Matt Doherty
Doherty’s reinvention as a right-sided centre-back under Vítor Pereira has been a turning point. Wolves’ recent surge away from relegation owes a lot to his dependable performances.
