The Premier League is the most glamorous league in world football. A big reason for this is the calibre of players who strut their stuff in the English top flight.
We wax lyrical about the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Mohamed Salah and Bukayo Saka on a weekly basis, and rightfully so. But there are a few players who slip under the radar despite putting in exceptional performances week after week.
It’s time to shed a light on the players who don’t get the credit they deserve, even though their track record suggests they should. Football Fixtures had compiled a list of undeniable ballers who’ve yet to receive their flowers.
Gabriel Magalhães – Arsenal
Gabriel’s performances this season have been nothing short of sublime. The Brazilian international has arguably been The Gunners’ most consistent player since the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign, but his efforts haven’t quite been recognised.
Arsenal have conceded the fewest goals in the league at the time of writing, and a large part of that is down to Gabriel’s monstrous displays at the heart of their defence. His centre back partner William Saliba is often raved about, and why shouldn’t he be? He’s a special talent. But Gabriel has been just as important to his sides’ fortunes so far this term, if not even more so.
Joe Gomez – Liverpool
Often maligned for his failure to replicate the form shown by Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahim Konate, Gomez has enjoyed somewhat of a redemption arc this season.
The former Charlton academy graduate has featured at right back, left back and centre back for The Reds, hardly putting a foot wrong whilst contributing at both ends of the field. Whenever called upon by Jurgen Klopp, Gomez has stepped up, whether starting or making an appearance from the bench. He’s become an important player for his team and has played a crucial role in Liverpool’s title challenge.
Diogo Dalot – Manchester United
We assure you this list isn’t purely composed of defenders, but we have to shout out United’s Portuguese right back Dalot.
In what has been a lacklustre season for Man Utd, Dalot has put in several assured displays, with opposition wingers having had a tough time getting change out of him. The 24-year-old has established himself as one of the best full backs in the league this season, and is one of the first names on Erik ten Hag’s team sheet.
During Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial interview with Piers Morgan in 2022, the Al-Nassr star took the time to acknowledge Dalot’s attitude and willingness to improve. High praise indeed and very much deserved.
Richarlison – Tottenham Hotspur
Following a £60M move from Everton in July 2022, Richarlison has often come under fire for his lack of output. With Harry Kane departing North London last summer, Richarlison’s form was under even more of a microscope.
It’s fair to say he has answered his critics in devastating fashion. Between December 2023 and February 2024, Richarlison notched up an incredible nine goals in eight league games, carrying the mantle of Son Heung-min who left for the Asia Cup in January.
The apology must be as loud as the disrespect, fairplay Ricchy.
Pascal Gross – Brighton & Hove Albion
German playmaker Pascal Gross has been pivotal for Brighton in the Premier League this season.
Demonstrating his vision and creative abilities, Gross is currently the joint-top assist provider in the league, although you wouldn’t know it judging by how little he’s spoken about. Brighton have struggled balancing their European exploits with their league efforts, but Gross has continually stood up to be counted. At 32 years of age, he is showing no signs of slowing down and it’s about time he got the recognition his form merits.
Mario Lemina – Wolverhampton Wanderers
When you think of Wolves’ most important players, the likes of Pedro Neto and Matheus Cunha immediately spring to mind, but what about Lemina?
Week in, week out, Lemina puts in no less than a 7/10 display in the engine room of Wolves’ midfield. He’s comfortable on the ball, has an eye for a pass, and isn’t afraid to get stuck in either. The Gabonese international was touted for big things early in his career, evidenced by a move to Serie A powerhouses Juventus back in 2015.
We’re finally now seeing what he’s truly capable of, he’s endeared himself in the hearts of Wolves supporters with several top class performances.
Ross Barkley- Luton Town
Simply put, Ross Barkley is tearing it up at Luton Town. The guy’s on fire, bringing some serious flair to The Hatters’ midfield.
Ball control, passing, an eye for goal, Barkley has it all and he’s reminding everyone what a talent he is. Granted, lately there have been shouts of a return to the England national team, so it’s clear he’s getting noticed. But the former Chelsea man has been a delight to watch all season long and is certainly still worth a mention in this article.
John McGinn- Aston Villa
Cleverly nicknamed ‘McGiniesta’ by Villa fans, McGinn has been fantastic all season long and has led his side’s charge toward Champions League football.
Vital goals aside, McGinn works tirelessly for his manager Unai Emery, who clearly trusts him to do a job against top-level opposition. The Villa captain is at the peak of his powers, such is the boldness of his character, his quality is often overlooked – not anymore. At Football Fixtures we’ve enjoyed his classy performances for a Villa team that has been outstanding in the Premier League.
