Ranked: The Premier League’s Best Players So Far This Season
The Premier League so far has been a mixture of disappointments and unexpected twists, with previously under-the-radar players distinguishing themselves while those who started with the highest expectations doing worse than expected. The season is already one-fifth of the way through, meaning that the League table is starting to properly take shape. Based on what we’ve seen so far, here are the best players so far this season.
1. Kevin de Bruyne
This 28-year-old Man City midfielder won Player of the Year for his team last season, and his record so far has not disappointed, despite widespread concern that his knee injury would put him out of action. In fact, his performances this season have helped keep City somewhat close to Liverpool so there is some semblance of pressure, with the latest betting tips placing Man City on 11/10 odds for winning the title for a third consecutive time.
2. Riyad Mahrez
The 28-year-old Man City winger definitely deserves the titles for ‘most improved’ this season. After an unimpressive performance during his 2018-19 debut, Mahrez has pulled it out of the bag this time around, providing two goals and three assists, as well as an average of 2.5 key passes per game. He’s clearly trying his best to show Guardiola that he’s an asset to the team, and he’s doing a good job of it.
3. Joel Matip
Liverpool defender Joel Matip has done an outstanding job so far this season, with a number of assured defensive performances alongside Virgil van Dijk as well as scoring a goal that helped Liverpool secure a 3-1 victory against Arsenal at the start of the season. Things are looking promising for Matip, who is gaining a reputation as one of the most reliable defenders in the league.
4. Roberto Firmino
The 28-year-old Brazilian may have only been with Liverpool for a short period of time, but he’s already a legend in the making. He reached 50 goals in the Premier League last month, after netting the final goal in Liverpool’s 3-0 victory over Burnley. This season got off to a great start for him, after he scored the first penalty against Chelsea in the UEFA Super Cup as Liverpool went on to win 5-4 on penalties. Overall it’s Firmino’s attacking involvement this season that makes him on of Liverpool’s greatest assets as he links up the play effectively, with the Brazilian also repeatedly showing he can regain possession from the other side in even the most dangerous positions.
5. Youri Tielemans
Belgian-born midfielder Youri Tielemans has quickly ensured that he is one player that Leicester is desperate to keep. His nine appearances in the PL so far have resulted in two goals and one assist, with his recent winning goal against Burnley a particularly masterful piece of footwork. His ample playtime this season suggests that the Foxes believe in his ability to deliver, meaning Tielemans is definitely one to watch.There is still plenty of Premier League action to go, so anything could happen to these rankings. Stay tuned as we follow the latest matches to see who stands out.