Players Poised for Breakout Seasons After Full Pre-Season

The power of a full pre-season cannot be underestimated, and several top players from the Premier League’s elite clubs are poised to shine in the 2024/25 campaign after having the summer off. Let’s take a look at eight players, one from each of the top eight clubs, who could be brilliant this upcoming season.

Arsenal: Gabriel Jesus

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has high praise for Gabriel Jesus, saying “He looks really good. He looks really sharp. The way he looks, his rhythm, his sharpness, the way he is moving. And you can see in his eyes as well that there is again some spark there because he has got now a point to prove and that is good.” After being left out of Brazil’s Copa America squad, Jesus will be eager to prove his worth and cement his place as Arsenal’s first-choice striker. With a full pre-season under his belt, the versatile forward is in a strong position to help the Gunners chase their first Premier League title in over two decades.

Aston Villa: Jacob Ramsey

Aston Villa fans are sensitive about any doubts surrounding Jacob Ramsey, and for good reason. The young midfielder had an injury-ravaged campaign but is now fully focused on getting back to 100% during the pre-season. Villa fans will be hoping Ramsey can recapture his previous form and play a big role in the upcoming season.

Chelsea: Reece James

At least five Chelsea players, including Levi Colwill, Ben Chilwell, Raheem Sterling, Wesley Fofana, and Christopher Nkunku, will be hoping to make a big impact in 2024/25 after a full summer break. However, it is club captain Reece James who has the biggest point to prove after an extremely challenging year, both mentally and physically, due to his long-term injury issues. Staying fit will be crucial for the talented right-back to remind everyone of his world-class abilities.

Liverpool: Mohamed Salah

Despite a “below-average” season by his standards, Mohamed Salah still managed 39 goal contributions in 44 games for Liverpool. With a new manager, Arne Slot, taking over at Anfield, the Egyptian superstar will be eager to recapture his best form during the pre-season. The Reds will also benefit from Ibrahima Konate, Curtis Jones, and Harvey Elliott being available for the full pre-season.

Manchester City: Jack Grealish

Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard would be obvious choices, but Jack Grealish has a point to prove after a difficult 2023/24 campaign. The arrival of Savinho at the Etihad has increased the competition for starting spots, and Grealish will be determined to recapture the form that made him a superstar at Aston Villa. A full pre-season could be exactly what the England international needs to rediscover his confidence and impact under Pep Guardiola.

Manchester United: Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford’s performances in 2022/23 were outstanding, but his dip in form last season was disappointing. Being left out of the England squad for Euro 2024 could be the wake-up call Rashford needs, as he fights for his future at Manchester United and with the national team. With a full pre-season under his belt, the Red Devils will be hoping the 25-year-old can regain his consistency and become a crucial player for Erik ten Hag once again.

Newcastle United: Alexander Isak

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe was relieved to see no Nick Pope in England’s Euro 2024 squad, ensuring the goalkeeper will be fully fit and ready for the pre-season. Meanwhile, star players like Anthony Gordon and Bruno Guimaraes were away on international duty, leaving Alexander Isak free to recharge and prepare for the upcoming campaign. After a full pre-season, the Swedish striker will be looking to continue his impressive form from last season and lead Newcastle’s charge.

Tottenham Hotspur: James Maddison

Another player who missed out on the Euro 2024 squad is James Maddison. The Tottenham midfielder had a dip in form after returning from injury in the 2023/24 season, and a full pre-season could be crucial in helping him rediscover his best form. Spurs fans will be hoping Maddison can maintain his performance levels over the course of the entire season and become a key player in their quest for silverware.

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