The Premier League is set to kick off in 2026-27, and with it comes a host of new players and exciting prospects. Here's a look at some of the players to watch this season, with a focus on those who have been brought in during the summer transfer window.
The Rising Stars
Steur (Newcastle United): A teenage midfielder who made waves in Europe with Ajax last season, Steur is a two-footed player with lovely passing ability. While he may not start every game, his fearless attitude and ability to learn from experienced teammates like Lewis Miley make him a player to watch. With a potential transfer fee of £23m, Steur is a big step up for Newcastle, but his talent and potential are undeniable.
Yirenkyi (Coventry City): Pronounced 'yur'INCH-ee', Yirenkyi is a versatile midfielder who made his mark at the World Cup with Ghana. His energetic play and goal-scoring ability, as evidenced by his goal against Panama, make him a player to watch in the Premier League. With a club-record transfer fee of £25m, Coventry City has made a shrewd investment in Yirenkyi, and his development under Frank Lampard could be a key factor in the club's success.
Madjo (Aston Villa): A teenage striker with a powerful build and a big future, Madjo has already made his mark in pre-season with four goals. His early comparisons to Erling Haaland are a testament to his potential. With a transfer fee of just over £10m, Madjo is a bargain for Aston Villa, and his development under Unai Emery could see him become a key player in the Champions League.
Hemmings (Aston Villa): A regular England international, Hemmings has been nurtured in the strict requirements of 'Emery Ball' at Aston Villa. His display against PSG in the Super Cup caught the eye, and his confidence and class on the ball make him a player to watch. With the exits of Youri Tielemans and Morgan Rogers, Hemmings could be the solution to Villa's midfield crisis.
Veljko Milosavljevic (Bournemouth): A teenage defender who made his Premier League debut for Bournemouth, Milosavljevic has the technical ability and physicality required to earn more consistent game time. While a knock during pre-season may delay his start to the season, his potential as 'one of the biggest talents of Serbian football' is undeniable.
The Established Stars
Johan Manzambi (Aston Villa): A versatile player who can play in central midfield, as a number 10, or as a right-sided forward, Manzambi had an excellent World Cup and was a key player in Freiburg's Europa League run. His ability to effortlessly glide across the pitch with the ball, as compared to Eberechi Eze, makes him a player to watch in the Premier League.
The Young Talent
Shea Lacey (Manchester United): A fearless wide player who is well-known to Michael Carrick, Lacey has overcome early injury problems and has figured prominently in pre-season. His lifelong United fan status and his connection to Carrick make him a player to watch, and his ability to take on the shirt and expectations without weighing heavily on his shoulders is a testament to his talent.
The Future of Swiss Football
JJ Gabriel (Manchester United): A 15-year-old freak of nature, JJ Gabriel is a player to watch in the Carabao Cup this season. His talent and potential are undeniable, and his connection to Michael Carrick, who knows him well from watching his son Jacey in the United academy, is a positive sign for his development.
The 2026-27 Premier League season promises to be an exciting one, with a host of new players and rising stars set to make their mark. These players, with their talent, potential, and unique stories, are sure to provide plenty of entertainment and excitement throughout the season.
