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Top 10 Premier League Players Ready to Impress Like New Signings in 26/27

Summer usually brings fresh signings that spark hope for the season ahead. But sometimes, the real excitement comes not from new arrivals but from players returning after setbacks, who feel like fresh signings all over again. These are the 'Like A New Signing' contenders—players ready to make a big impact after injury or time away.

10) Fabio Carvalho (Brentford)

Carvalho, once a Liverpool winger, has been sidelined since last November due to an ACL injury, with only six Premier League appearances before then. He recently returned in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Brentford's B team, signaling his comeback.

9) Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool)

Liverpool’s defensive situation is delicate, with key players injured or unavailable. Leoni, signed as a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk, suffered a season-ending knee injury on his debut last season. Now back in solo training, he’s eyeing a September return, a hopeful sign for Liverpool's defence.

8) Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton)

Tzimas arrived at Brighton for £21m from Germany but suffered an ACL injury during his first Premier League start. After showing promising substitute appearances, he's now back in training and could fill the gap left by Danny Welbeck’s departure to Chelsea.

7) Levi Colwill (Chelsea)

Chelsea’s defense struggled badly last season, worsened by injuries including to Colwill. His return late last season gave glimpses of a more stable defence. With a new, promising manager and several potential returns from injury, Chelsea might finally stabilize their back line.

6) Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)

De Ligt was a mainstay early in the season until back problems forced surgery. Since then, much has changed at United, including management. Back in training, De Ligt looks set to return, bringing renewed hope to United’s defence.

5) Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham)

Kulusevski has been out with injury since a knock against Crystal Palace 15 months ago. Tottenham’s injury woes continue, with Maddison also sidelined. Reports suggest Kulusevski is back in some form of training, which would ease pressure on Spurs’ struggling attack.

4) Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)

Doucoure has battled through two-and-a-half years of injuries, including an Achilles tear and knee issues, playing only 13 Premier League games since late 2023. Now back in pre-season action, he looks ready to inject energy into Palace’s midfield under Pierre Sage.

3) Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)

Jackson must stay at Chelsea to qualify as a 'Like A New Signing'. Despite tough times and criticism, he showed promise last season alongside Cole Palmer. With new manager Xabi Alonso giving him minutes, Jackson could still prove valuable in Chelsea’s lineup.

2) Alexander Isak (Liverpool)

Isak’s first Liverpool season was marred by poor form and injuries. Though signed with high expectations, he barely felt like a Liverpool player. With a new manager in place, Isak has a chance to revive his Liverpool career and stand out in a league short on top strikers.

1) Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)

Rashford tops the list as the ultimate 'Like A New Signing.' Once pushed out under previous management, he’s now back at Old Trafford with a fresh squad number, signaling a new chapter. His reintegration could be key for United’s future.

Summary of Top 10 Like A New Signing Contenders 26/27

  • 10: Fabio Carvalho (Brentford) – Returning from ACL injury
  • 9: Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool) – Back after season-ending knee injury
  • 8: Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton) – Recovered from ACL, ready to fill Welbeck’s void
  • 7: Levi Colwill (Chelsea) – Defense boost after injury absence
  • 6: Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United) – Back after back surgery
  • 5: Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham) – Training after 15 months out
  • 4: Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace) – Midfield anchor returning post-injuries
  • 3: Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea) – Showing promise under new manager
  • 2: Alexander Isak (Liverpool) – Chance to revive career
  • 1: Marcus Rashford (Manchester United) – Back for a fresh start

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