Premier League Underrated XI for 2024/25

Every Premier League season sees a number of players who, despite consistent and commendable performances, fail to receive the widespread recognition they deserve. The 2024/25 campaign has been no exception, with several footballers quietly delivering top-class displays while eluding the limelight.

Below is our carefully selected Underrated XI for the 2024/25 season – a line-up of Premier League stars who merit far more credit than they’ve received.

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Goalkeeper: Dean Henderson – Crystal Palace

Dean Henderson has firmly established himself as Crystal Palace’s first-choice goalkeeper this season, after making just 18 league appearances the year before. The England international played a crucial role behind a dependable defensive unit, pulling off a string of impressive saves throughout the campaign. Henderson ended the season in fourth place in the race for the Golden Glove and delivered a standout performance – albeit with some fortune – in Palace’s triumphant FA Cup final outing.

Right-back: Noussair Mazraoui – Manchester United

Amidst a turbulent season at Old Trafford, Noussair Mazraoui proved to be one of Manchester United’s few transfer successes. Signed for only £12.8 million in the previous summer window, the Moroccan international offered value and reliability in the right-back role. Mazraoui topped the Premier League charts for dribblers tackled, recording 59 successful challenges. Furthermore, only two defenders across the league managed to win more duels, highlighting his defensive acumen and work rate.

Centre-back: Ilya Zabarnyi – Bournemouth

While Dean Huijsen captured headlines with his standout performances and eventual £50 million move to Real Madrid, his central defensive partner Ilya Zabarnyi was equally integral to Bournemouth’s back line. The Ukrainian centre-half provided excellent balance and understanding alongside Huijsen and fit seamlessly into Andoni Iraola’s tactical setup. Notably confident in possession, Zabarnyi’s ability to carry the ball from deep was a defining trait of Bournemouth’s style this season.

Centre-back: Maxence Lacroix – Crystal Palace

The departure of Joachim Andersen to Fulham raised eyebrows at Selhurst Park, but Maxence Lacroix quickly filled the void with aplomb. While differing in approach from Andersen, Lacroix – a favourite of manager Oliver Glasner – added a fresh dimension to Palace’s defence. His lightning recovery speed was key, and he led all players in the Premier League for last-man tackles, registering five in total. His presence has made him one of the most valuable additions to Palace’s squad.

Left-back: Djed Spence – Tottenham Hotspur

Having never started a Premier League game for Tottenham before this season, Djed Spence looked likely to be offloaded following mixed loan spells at Rennes, Leeds, and Genoa. However, the full-back seized his opportunity amidst Spurs’ injury troubles and forced his way into the starting line-up. Spence’s resurgence has been a rare bright spot in a difficult campaign for Tottenham, with his performances even prompting talk of a potential England call-up during the March international break.

Midfield: Boubacar Kamara – Aston Villa

Despite being highly valued at Villa Park, Boubacar Kamara has remained relatively underappreciated on the broader Premier League stage. The French defensive midfielder played a pivotal role in Unai Emery’s system, showcasing calmness, composure, and impeccable positional sense throughout the season. Kamara’s consistent excellence at the base of midfield has made him a potential target for Europe’s elite, particularly after Villa fell short in their bid for Champions League qualification.

Midfield: Alex Iwobi – Fulham

Alex Iwobi found his groove at Craven Cottage, producing the finest campaign of his Premier League career. Previously known for flashes of talent but hampered by inconsistency, the Nigerian midfielder transformed under Marco Silva’s guidance. Iwobi delivered energy, creativity, and attacking threat week in, week out. His final tally of nine goals and six assists represents the most productive season of his top-flight career to date.

Right-wing: Jacob Murphy – Newcastle United

Few players epitomise the concept of being underrated better than Jacob Murphy. Despite Newcastle United’s efforts to strengthen the right-wing position in recent transfer windows, Murphy made the role his own with a string of stellar performances. The 30-year-old winger ended the season with eight league goals and 12 assists, finishing just behind Mohamed Salah in the Playmaker Award standings. His on-field synergy with striker Alexander Isak was a crucial component of Newcastle’s attacking threat at St James’ Park.

Left-wing: Mikkel Damsgaard – Brentford

After two relatively quiet campaigns, Mikkel Damsgaard came into his own for Brentford during the 2024/25 season. The Danish playmaker proved vital to the Bees’ offensive play, providing 10 assists and creating numerous chances throughout the year. His contributions were recognised as he was named Brentford’s Player of the Season, beating stiff competition from prolific teammate Bryan Mbeumo.

Forward: Yoane Wissa – Brentford

Yoane Wissa continued to be a key figure for Brentford, enjoying a breakout season in front of goal. The versatile attacker finished with 19 goals in the Premier League, cementing himself as a top performer after previously playing more of a supporting role. Over the past two campaigns, Wissa has now scored 31 league goals, prompting increasing interest from rival clubs. Brentford notably rejected a January bid from Nottingham Forest for the 28-year-old and are expecting more interest in the upcoming transfer window.

Forward: Jørgen Strand Larsen – Wolves

Wolverhampton Wanderers have long struggled to replace the presence of Raul Jimenez, whose form never recovered after his head injury in late 2020. Between the 2020/21 and 2022/23 seasons, no Wolves player managed to score more than six goals in a league campaign. However, the club may have found the answer in Jørgen Strand Larsen. On loan from Celta Vigo, the Norwegian striker concluded his debut Premier League season with 14 goals and was instrumental in guiding Wolves away from relegation danger. His permanent signing appears to be on the horizon.

Conclusion

These eleven players were vital cogs in their respective teams during the 2024/25 Premier League season, despite being overlooked in most mainstream narratives. Whether through tactical discipline, defensive excellence, or creative spark, each has made a strong case for greater appreciation from fans and pundits alike. As the football world turns its attention to the next transfer window, these unsung heroes may soon become sought-after stars.