1. Wilfried Ndidi
Still only 21, and now entering his second full season in the Premier League, expect Ndidi to further boost his burgeoning reputation this year. Only perhaps Thomas Partey can rival him as Africa’s best defensive midfielder in the world today, and many would argue that Ndidi’s work protecting the backline is far better than the Atletico Madrid man. He’s helped Leicester City finally get over the loss of N’Golo Kante to Chelsea, and expect some of the division’s giants to be taking a closer look at him over the next 12 months.
2. Kelechi Iheanacho
Kelechi Iheanacho’s maiden season at Leicester City didn’t go to plan, with the Nigeria international only finding the net three times all season. He was used in an ill-fitting No. 10 role at times last term, but there are hopes this campaign that he’ll be used up top alongside Jamie Vardy rather than in a supporting role. He’ll still be desperate to prove that Pep Guardiola was wrong to cut him loose from Manchester City, and his encouraging preseason form bodes well for the year ahead.
3. Issa Diop
Issa Diop is the top-ranked new signing on this list, having moved to West Ham United from Toulouse for €25 million. At just 21, he’s a gamble for the Hammers, particularly considering he’d only made 85 league appearances before making the move to the Prem. However, he’s a remarkable prospect, capable of becoming an immaculate central defensive leader, and either France, Senegal or Morocco will be lucky to have him one day. Watch out for his hunger and his immense presence. He’ll be hard to miss!
4. Ademola Lookman
RasenBallsport Leipzig were so impressed with what they saw from Lookman on loan in the Bundesliga for the second half of last season that they’ve made repeated attempts to sign him permanently from the Toffees. Sam Allardyce may not have seen his merits, but Marco Silva appears to be a fan and looks keen to keep the Nigerian wonderkid around. Competition is fierce at Everton, but four assists and five goals in 11 games for Leipzig suggests Lookman’s ready for a key role.
5. Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Aaron Wan-Bissaka stepped in to Crystal Palace’s first team during an injury crisis last season and appeared unruffled and unfazed by the prospect of testing his mettle against some of the Premier League’s top left wingers. Such is his composure, that he’s already displaced England’s Martin Kelly in the Eagles’ starting XI, and began the 2018-19 season with an assist in Palace’s opening victory over Fulham. The wonderkid has represented England and the Democratic Republic of Congo at U-20 level
5. Matteo Guendouzi
Initially signed by Arsenal ostensibly as one for the future, Guendouzi’s midfield showings during preseason have got fans talking about a player who can make an impact right now. Along with Lucas Torreira, he represents the Gunners’ future, but the Franco-Moroccan’s attitude and composure make him a genuine contender for a starting berth. It will be fascinating to see how he develops in the coming years, particularly considering the natural authority he demonstrated against Chelsea.
7. Yves Bissouma
Yves Bissouma’s arrival at Brighton and Hove Albion certainly represents a gamble for both player and club, but he has the quality to be an astute addition for the Seagulls—and to climb all the way up this list during the season. He’s a threat from set-pieces and from range, is determined and tenacious, and offers versatility enough to be a key addition across Chris Hughton’s midfield. His confidence shines through, and he’s no stranger to a relegation battle, after helping LOSC Lille avoid the drop last term.