The 2018-19 season is well and truly underway and has generated enormous buzz throughout the footballing fraternity. Of all the big leagues, only the Bundesliga is yet to begin.
The usual suspects have had a good time so far with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Barcelona and Real Madrid enjoying strong starts to their season.
Through the course of this article, we will look at players who have the potential to make a mark on the footballing circuit and endear themselves to the fans.
1. James Maddison (Leicester City)
In Leicester’s opening game, he was able to break United’s midfield lines and create space for himself in the ‘hole’. He got on the ball and passed it around confidently. The most encouraging aspect, however, was the ease with which he dribbled past his markers.
He displayed quick feet to wriggle out of tight areas and portrayed enough intelligence to be in the right place at the right time.
Though the season is only a couple of games old, he has shown the potential to be a star in the Premier League. Maddison belongs to a rare breed of footballers who prioritize creativity over calculation. If he can keep improving his skill-set and perform consistently, he can find himself in The Three Lions’ squad and make the ‘No.10’ position his own.
As the season progresses, he is a player you would not want to take your eyes off.
2 Leon Goretzka (Bayern Munich)
The young, all-action midfielder is a perfect fit for Bayern Munich. Bayern have missed a midfielder of the ilk of Schweinsteiger, capable of contributing in both boxes. The arrival of Goretzka could signal the end for Bayern’s search for Schweinsteiger’s replacement.
With Vidal leaving in the summer, Goretzka would get his fair share of opportunities and he would hope he can realize his potential.
Goretzka looks set to be a vital cog in the Bayern machinery and this season represents the perfect launchpad for him.
3. Rodrigo (Atletico Madrid)
He started the UEFA Super Cup against Real Madrid and was a rock in midfield. He broke up the play astutely and recycled the ball efficiently. If he continues in the same vein, it won’t be long before he is regarded as one of the best in the business.
Despite being 22 years old, he has gained tons of experience in La Liga and looks primed to nail down a starting berth for Atletico. Atletico would hope that he can be their midfield general for years to come.
His acid test would be how he can handle the expectations at his new club. Rodrigo has the potential and the temperament. It is now up to him to cement his status as one of the best defensive midfielders in Spain.