Football debuts can be a defining moment in a player’s career. For some, it’s the perfect opportunity to make a statement and showcase their talent on the biggest stage, while others crumble under the weight of expectation. The Premier League has seen its fair share of unforgettable debut performances, where players have stolen the spotlight with goals, assists, and iconic moments. From dramatic hat-tricks to stunning solo efforts, these debuts have gone down in history as some of the best the league has ever seen. Here’s a look at 10 of the greatest Premier League debuts of all time.
10. Jürgen Klinsmann – Sheffield Wednesday 3-4 Tottenham Hotspur (20th August 1994)
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Jürgen Klinsmann’s Premier League debut was as entertaining as it was memorable. In a thrilling 4-3 victory against Sheffield Wednesday, the German striker scored a brilliant diving header to secure Tottenham’s fourth goal. His movement and link-up play immediately made Spurs’ attack more dynamic and dangerous. What captured fans’ hearts most was his celebration. Klinsmann humorously leaned into his reputation for diving, performing a dramatic dive after his goal. The iconic moment not only highlighted his sense of humor but also his ability to rise to the occasion, helping to establish himself as one of the league’s early stars.
9. Mohamed Salah – Watford 3-3 Liverpool (12th August 2017)
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Mohamed Salah made an instant impact in his Premier League return during Liverpool’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Watford. The Egyptian winger, who had previously struggled during a stint at Chelsea, scored Liverpool’s third goal and contributed to their relentless attack with his blistering pace and intelligent positioning. Salah’s debut was just a hint of what was to come, as he went on to have a record-breaking season, netting 32 goals in the league. This debut not only erased doubts about his ability to thrive in England but also marked the start of one of the most dominant Premier League careers in history.
8. Anthony Martial – Manchester United 3-1 Liverpool (12th September 2015)
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Anthony Martial announced himself to the Premier League in stunning fashion during Manchester United’s heated clash with Liverpool. Coming off the bench as a relatively unknown teenager, Martial made an immediate impact by scoring a spectacular solo goal, weaving past defenders before calmly slotting the ball into the net. The goal not only sealed a victory for United but also cemented Martial’s status as one of the most exciting young talents in Europe. His debut was a glimpse into his immense potential and ensured that the £36 million transfer fee United paid would soon be seen as a bargain.
7. Sergio Agüero – Manchester City 4-0 Swansea City (15th August 2011)
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Sergio Agüero’s debut for Manchester City was nothing short of spectacular. Coming off the bench against Swansea City, the Argentine forward scored twice and provided an assist in just 30 minutes of play. His first goal was a poacher’s effort, while his second—a 30-yard screamer—left fans in awe. Agüero’s debut performance laid the foundation for a historic career in the Premier League, where he would go on to become Manchester City’s all-time leading scorer. That night, the Premier League witnessed the beginning of a modern legend.
6. Erling Haaland – West Ham United 0-2 Manchester City (7th August 2022)
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Erling Haaland wasted no time proving his worth in the Premier League, scoring both goals in Manchester City’s 2-0 victory over West Ham United. His first came from the penalty spot, while his second showcased his incredible pace and clinical finishing as he latched onto a through ball and slotted it home. The Norwegian striker’s debut was a sign of things to come. Haaland’s physicality, positioning, and relentless goal-scoring ability immediately made him one of the most feared forwards in the league, setting him on course to break records in his first season.
5. Odsonne Edouard – Crystal Palace 3-0 Tottenham Hotspur (11th September 2021)
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Odsonne Edouard had a dream debut for Crystal Palace, coming off the bench to score twice in a 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. The French forward made an instant impact, netting his first goal just 28 seconds after entering the field. He later added a second with a composed finish to seal the win. Edouard’s debut showcased his composure in front of goal and ability to thrive under pressure. His performance provided Palace fans with hope for an exciting future under his attacking prowess.
4. Danny Rose – Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Arsenal (7th April 2010)
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Danny Rose made a name for himself in one of the fiercest rivalries in English football. In his Premier League debut for Tottenham against Arsenal, Rose scored a stunning volley from 30 yards out, lashing the ball past the keeper after a poor clearance from a corner. The spectacular strike set the tone for Spurs’ 2-1 victory and immediately etched Rose’s name into Tottenham folklore. Although his career had ups and downs, this debut moment remains one of the most memorable in North London Derby history.
3. Alan Shearer – Crystal Palace 3-3 Blackburn Rovers (15th August 1992)
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Alan Shearer announced his arrival in the Premier League with a dominant display for Blackburn Rovers in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Crystal Palace. The English striker scored twice, showcasing his powerful shot and clinical finishing. Shearer’s debut was a glimpse of his prolific goal-scoring ability, which would eventually make him the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer with 260 goals. This first game set the standard for a career filled with iconic moments.
2. Marcus Rashford – Manchester United 3-2 Arsenal (28th February 2016)
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Marcus Rashford burst onto the scene with a sensational debut in Manchester United’s clash against Arsenal. The young striker scored twice and provided an assist, single-handedly leading his team to victory. His calmness and composure in front of goal defied his age and experience. Rashford’s performance made him an instant fan favorite and marked the beginning of a remarkable journey at Old Trafford. His debut remains one of the most impressive in Premier League history.
1. Fabrizio Ravanelli – Middlesbrough 3-3 Liverpool (17th August 1996)
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Fabrizio Ravanelli’s debut for Middlesbrough is often regarded as the greatest in Premier League history. The Italian striker, nicknamed “The White Feather,” scored a stunning hat-trick in a 3-3 draw with Liverpool. His goals showcased his clinical finishing and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. Ravanelli’s debut set a high bar for the rest of his career in England. Although his time at Middlesbrough was brief, this debut ensured his place in Premier League folklore.
