The Premier League is back. Another season means another dose of action-packed entertainment, unforgettable memories and unmatched vibes.
Whether teams are aiming for the title or plotting on survival one thing is for certain: the best domestic league in the world won't disappoint. And whilst some of the biggest names in the game are set to put on a performance week in and out, we're due to see some breakout moments from football's brightest young stars.
The VERSUS team have linked up to show you the best of the best. Here’s 10 ballers you need to watch out for this season. Start taking notes because these young guns are about to blow.
1. James Trafford
Club: Burnley
Position: Goalkeeper
Age: 20
If there’s one young player to look out for this season, it may just be JT. Not talking about the singer when we say this baller could be asking strikers to cry him a river. Hype on his name will be high after a breakout summer with the Young Lions – conceding no goals on their way to win the U21 Euros – but showed his levels in the senior game with 22 clean sheets in League One last season. Between newly promoted Burnley’s sticks, Trafford will see plenty of action and be given the chance to show the game what he can do.
2. Kobbie Mainoo
Club: Manchester United
Position: Midfielder
Age: 18
Kobbie definitely has the Mamba mentality. Across pre-season, he showed United and the world what he truly was about. Four games saw him complete 100% of his dribbles and get an assist, whilst also displaying his passing ability and how well he can break up play. An ankle injury may keep him sidelined for a while but his elevation in the team is not in question. United are due to have a packed schedule and this player will feature in ETH’s plans. Carrington may have produced another gem and it’s time to let him shine bright.
3. Matheus França
Club: Crystal Palace
Position: Midfielder
Age: 19
Football Manger heads will be aware of this future franchise boy from Flamengo. The attacking mid is about to bring Samba to South London. Despite being so young, França has shown versatility with his ability to be a major goal threat and a serial ball winner. A team with creativity and flair has just added another versatile player with the same traits. In his 13 career starts for Flamengo’s senior team, he had already notched seven goals.
4. Ian Maatsen
Club: Chelsea
Position: Left Back
Age: 21
Ian Maatsen is ready to make a major impact. Last season’s campaign with Burnley in the Championship showed his ability to not only defend, but be an attacking force as well. Four goals and six assists saw him reach double figures for goal contribution in the league en route to securing a ‘Team of the Season’ place. Winning the Championship was perfect prep for him to win a first team place at the Bridge. Early signs show he could be utilised in multiple positions which should increase the likelihood of him having a real impression on this Premier League season.
5. Destiny Udogie
Club: Spurs
Position: Left Back
Age: 20
Destiny by name and its his destiny to be a star. After spending another season on loan at Udinese last season and making serious waves in Serie A, Udogie is set to go play serious minutes in the Premier League. The defender featured in all of Spurs’ pre-season games and has shown promise with his on-the-ball ability, one-on-one defending, and ambition to find the back of the net. Spurs are in the middle of a rebuild but this baller will be a foundational pillar.
6. Simon Adingra
Club: Brighton
Position: Winger
Age: 21
Simon says it’s takeover time. Brighton find more uncut gems than any other club in the Premier League and Adingra is next up to show what he’s got. The 21-year-old will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of other young talents by imposing himself into De Zerbi’s plans after a title-winning loan spell with Union SG, during which he achieved a 20 G/A contribution in Belgium. Originated from FC Nordsjælland but his travels have seen him not only learn how to have an eye for goal, but how to harness his speed and footwork. Dangerous player.
7. Elliot Anderson
Club: Newcastle
Position: Midfield
Age: 20
The Toon have been crying out for one of their own to come through the ranks in recent times and Elliot Anderson looks the real deal. Towards the end of last season, Elliot started getting his first few starts which resulted in an assist on the final day of the season but his continued form in pre-season suggests he could be firmly in Eddie Howe’s plans, especially with increased fixtures ahead. Four goals in four warm-up games is serious business. This kid is ready to restore the feeling up North.
8. Cole Palmer
Club: Manchester City
Position: Midfielder
Age: 21
Whilst many are aware of Cole Palmer’s name, we are still unaware of his true potential. In typical Guardiola fashion, this special player is being teased to us whilst he downloads all of the wisdom that only a GOAT manager can give. This season looks like it will be the one where the teachings are finally unleashed. If his cameo in the Community Shield was anything to go by, this baby faced assassin is on violence and possesses the ability to score with ease. Just as Rico Lewis and Phil Foden before him found, when you get the call, it’s go time. C.P. is gonna be in good company when he touches the field.
9. Issa Kaboré
Club: Luton Town (On loan from Manchester City)
Position: Right Back
Age: 22
Many are astonished by Luton Town being in the Premier League but those who know, will be astonished that this baller doesn’t have more hype in his name. Issa is a seasoned pro having completed two seasons in the French top-tier but he now has the chance to show his talents on the biggest stage of all. On the global stage, Kaboré gained attention by being a breakout star at AFCON for his Burkina Faso side. One thing about his loan move is that not only will he get game time, he will be tried and tested as Luton fight to stay in the league. Put your money on him delivering in those battles.
10. Alex Scott
Club: Bournemouth
Position: Midfielder
Age: 19
Alex Scott is a frequent VERSUS one-to-watch and our prophecy for this baller has come through. From Guernsey to the Grand Slam. Championship to the Premiership. Non-league to the top league. He has put in the graft for some time and now, a chance to prove himself at the top level awaits. A seasoned campaigner for Bristol City who proved he was able to play in various roles. His new role will be shining bright for the Cherries as they look to cement their status. Some may have seen the performances in the U-20 Euros and were impressed, others will remember the plaudits he gained from Guardiola and Grealish after playing City. You however, should just invest stocks now.