"Sport defies predictions, and seasons take unexpected twists and turns. It was only a few weeks ago, after a run of dramatic late wins, that everyone was handing the Premier League title to Liverpool; now, Arsenal look to be strong favorites. But things can change again, and the movers and shakers often turn out to be unexpected ones. Here is my selection of players who have been big hits in the 2025-26 season."
"Martín Zubimendi is proving a class signing. The Spain international sits at the base of the midfield, dictating play and allowing Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze to assume more attacking roles in midfield. In contrast to some other big-money summer arrivals, he has needed no settling-in period and has even provided a goal threat from set pieces. Craig Burley discusses Florian Wirtz's current form with Germany and how that's linked to his move to Liverpool."
"Unpredictable and youthful, Chelsea need the immense midfield presence of Moisés Caicedo, who has put a shaky start at Stamford Bridge well behind him to become the commanding powerhouse he was at Brighton. Every club in the league could use him. Meanwhile, has been the pick of Chelsea's collection of wingers. City are also getting a tremendous boost from attacker Jérémy Doku, whose breathtaking wing wizardry ripped Liverpool apart on Nov. 9. He was just about impossible to defend in City's 3-0 win, another example of a player who has been improved greatly by Pep Guardiola's coaching."
Sport remains unpredictable and the Premier League title race shifted from Liverpool to Arsenal within weeks. Several players have emerged as decisive contributors in 2025-26. Martín Zubimendi anchors midfield, dictating play and creating attacking space while posing a set-piece goal threat. Moisés Caicedo overcame a shaky start to become a commanding midfield powerhouse reminiscent of his Brighton form. Jérémy Doku has provided explosive wing play for Manchester City, devastating Liverpool on Nov. 9 and benefiting markedly from Pep Guardiola’s coaching. Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze operate in more advanced midfield roles facilitated by Zubimendi’s control.
Read at ESPN.com
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