The 2024/25 Premier League season has once again seen star names dominate headlines. Yet, beneath the surface, each club boasts lesser-heralded players whose contributions are vital to their team’s success. From versatile defenders to tireless midfield engines, here’s a club-by-club look at the most underrated player at each Premier League side this season.
Wolverhampton Wanderers – Joao Gomes
Joao Gomes might not be grabbing headlines like Matheus Cunha, but his influence in midfield is massive. His energy, aggression, and ability to disrupt play make him a key figure in Wolves’ push for Premier League survival.
West Ham United – Michail Antonio
Despite the arrival of numerous expensive forwards, Michail Antonio remains West Ham’s go-to man. The club’s all-time top scorer in the Premier League continues to deliver with his strength, pace, and knack for goals.
Tottenham Hotspur – Son Heung-min
Son may be a household name, but recent struggles at Spurs have overshadowed his brilliance. When in form, the South Korean forward is still among the most dangerous attackers in the league.
Southampton – Yukinari Sugawara
Sugawara’s stats for dribbles, crosses, and chances created are among the best for Premier League full-backs. Unfortunately, Southampton’s poor form has kept his consistent performances under the radar.
Nottingham Forest – Morgan Gibbs-White
Forest fans know his quality, but Morgan Gibbs-White still doesn’t get the wider recognition he deserves. A creative force with exceptional vision, he’s one of the most complete attacking midfielders in the league.
Newcastle United – Martin Dubravka
Thrown in due to injury, Dubravka immediately delivered with four clean sheets in a row. His consistency and professionalism have made it difficult for Nick Pope to reclaim his starting spot.
Manchester United – Diogo Dalot
Dalot’s versatility across both flanks has been essential during a tumultuous period for United. Rarely flashy, but always dependable, he’s one of the squad’s most consistent performers.
Manchester City – Mateo Kovacic
While Rodri’s absence left big shoes to fill, Mateo Kovacic has done a commendable job. He’s solid across the board and contributes effectively in both attacking transitions and ball retention.
Liverpool – Alexis Mac Allister
Often overshadowed by bigger names, Mac Allister is the heartbeat of Liverpool’s midfield. His intelligence, passing range, and calmness in possession make him vital to Klopp’s setup.
Leicester City – Bilal El Khannouss
In a struggling side, El Khannouss has stood out with moments of real quality. His technical ability and confidence have provided rare bright spots for Leicester this season.
Ipswich Town – Leif Davis
While Delap and Hutchinson steal the spotlight, Leif Davis quietly excels at both ends of the pitch. His crossing and work rate have been crucial in Ipswich’s impressive return to the top flight.
Fulham – Alex Iwobi
Reinvented under Marco Silva, Iwobi has become Fulham’s creative engine. His flair, vision, and improved end product have made him indispensable in their attacking play.
Everton – James Tarkowski
Jarrad Branthwaite may be getting the plaudits, but Tarkowski is the glue holding Everton’s defence together. His leadership and no-nonsense defending are crucial to their solidity at the back.
Crystal Palace – Chris Richards
Richards has quietly become a key part of Palace’s defensive line. Strong, athletic, and composed, he’s especially impressed in big matches like the clean sheet against Manchester United.
Chelsea – Malo Gusto
Though often benched for Reece James, Gusto has shown real promise with his dynamic displays. His overlapping runs and creativity from right-back have added a fresh dimension to Chelsea’s play.
Brighton & Hove Albion – Danny Welbeck
Welbeck brings experience and tactical intelligence to Brighton’s frontline. He may not score frequently, but his hold-up play and link-up ability remain top-class.
Brentford – Yoane Wissa
With 12 goals this season, Wissa has nearly matched Mbeumo’s output yet remains underappreciated. His pace, movement, and finishing make him a constant threat.
Bournemouth – David Brooks
Brooks’ return from illness has been inspirational, and his left foot is as dangerous as ever. His creativity and determination have re-established him as a key part of Bournemouth’s setup.
Aston Villa – John McGinn
The Villa captain is the embodiment of Emery’s philosophy – gritty, smart, and tireless. His leadership and crucial goals often go unnoticed outside the Villa fanbase.
Arsenal – Jurrien Timber
Timber’s adaptability has been vital to Arsenal’s defensive depth this season. Whether at centre-back or full-back, he delivers consistent, intelligent performances that allow others to shine.
