A Premier League XI of This Season’s Surprise Performers

The Premier League is full of unexpected heroes, and this season has already delivered its share of standout performances from players who have exceeded expectations. Here’s a lineup of those who have turned heads for all the right reasons.

André Onana (Manchester United)

The Cameroonian goalkeeper had a rocky start to his Premier League career, with high-profile mistakes in Manchester United’s domestic and European campaigns raising doubts about his abilities. However, this season, Onana has emerged as a reliable presence between the posts. He leads the league in clean sheets, with five in 11 games, and is outperforming in shot-stopping metrics. Onana’s passing accuracy is also on track to surpass last season’s, making him a reassuring figure during another turbulent start for United.

Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest)

Aina was handed only a one-year contract extension after a mixed first season at Nottingham Forest. Starting the season at left-back, the Nigerian international shifted to right-back after three games and has since delivered stellar performances. His lockdown on Luis Díaz during Forest’s win over Liverpool was one of the season’s standout defensive displays, proving his worth and likely leaving Forest regretting their hesitancy to offer him a longer deal.

Nikola Milenkovic (Nottingham Forest)

The Serbian defender has been a revelation since his £12 million summer move from Fiorentina. Brought in to solidify a Forest defence that struggled with set pieces last season, Milenkovic has quickly adjusted to the Premier League. His partnership with Murillo has transformed Nottingham Forest’s backline into one of the league’s most formidable, a key reason for their surprising rise in the table.

Michael Keane (Everton)

Keane was on the fringes at Everton last season, making only nine league appearances. This year, he’s already equaled that total and delivered key contributions, including a stunning left-footed goal against Ipswich. While Jarrad Branthwaite’s return from injury may limit his opportunities moving forward, Keane’s solid performances as a deputy have helped Everton navigate challenging times.

Antonee Robinson (Fulham)

Fulham’s U.S. international left-back has been one of the league’s best defenders this season. Robinson ranks third among defenders for tackles and interceptions while also excelling in attack, contributing three assists—the most by any Premier League defender so far. His pace and relentless overlapping runs down the left flank have been instrumental in Fulham’s impressive performances, marking him as one of the league’s standout full-backs.

Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)

Gravenberch has quickly transitioned from a squad player to a pivotal figure in Liverpool’s midfield. Playing as a deep-lying defensive midfielder, the Dutch international has thrived in the role, starting all 11 of Liverpool’s league matches and missing just one. His performances suggest that Liverpool may have already found the midfield anchor they’ve been searching for.

Pape Matar Sarr (Tottenham Hotspur)

Sarr’s relentless energy in Tottenham’s midfield has made him a crucial part of Ange Postecoglou’s plans. His all-action display in Spurs’ comeback win over Aston Villa highlighted his value, as he won the ball nine times and drove forward to create two goals. Sarr’s partnership with Dejan Kulusevski has pushed James Maddison to the fringes, showcasing his growing importance to the team.

Matheus Nunes (Manchester City)

Injuries to key players have handed Nunes a more significant role at Manchester City, and he has seized the opportunity. The former Wolves midfielder has delivered three goals, four assists, and seven big chances created across competitions. His versatility has been a boon for Pep Guardiola, and his performances may secure him a permanent role in City’s starting XI.

Facundo Buonanotte (Leicester City)

On loan from Brighton, the teenage Argentine winger has been a bright spot for newly promoted Leicester. Buonanotte has matched last season’s tally of three Premier League goals while adding two assists. His fearless attacking play and willingness to contribute defensively have made him a key player for the Foxes in their battle to stay up.

Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest)

The veteran striker has defied expectations by scoring eight goals, placing him among the league’s top scorers alongside stars like Mohamed Salah and Bryan Mbeumo. Wood’s physicality and ability to finish crucial chances have been vital for Forest, with all eight of his goals directly contributing to their points tally, helping them secure an impressive league position.

Liam Delap (Ipswich Town)

At just 21, Delap has thrived at Ipswich after underwhelming loan spells in the Championship. The young forward has already scored six goals, including a stunning solo effort against Fulham. His pace, trickery, and powerful strikes have made him a nightmare for defenders and a key player in Ipswich’s attacking setup.

Conclusion

These players have shattered pre-season predictions, establishing themselves as integral parts of their teams. From defensive stalwarts to attacking revelations, this season’s surprise XI showcases the unpredictability and excitement of the Premier League. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how these players continue to shape their teams’ fortunes.