Soccer Season Kickoff and Players to Watch
As some major leagues have already begun their seasons, the 2025-26 European club campaign officially kicks off this Friday. The English Premier League, French Ligue 1, and Spanish La Liga are set to unveil their new seasons, while Serie A and the German Bundesliga will follow suit next week.
While the focus is often on the top clubs, it’s the players that truly entice fans worldwide. Here are eleven players to keep an eye on from now until May.
Jobe Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund)
The younger sibling of English sensation Jude Bellingham, Jobe made headlines last season by aiding Sunderland in their Premier League promotion, then later joined Dortmund. He was enthusiastically welcomed to the 81,000-seat Westfalenstadion and has already made an impression by wearing the prestigious number seven shirt. After debuting at the FIFA Club World Cup, he’s set to help Dortmund chase their first Bundesliga title since 2012.
Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)
At just 23, Caicedo has emerged as one of the top defensive midfielders globally since his transition from Brighton & Hove Albion to Chelsea. He played a critical role in the team’s success during last season’s Club World Cup run and will bring his skill set back into the Champions League as Chelsea aims for European glory after returning from a two-year absence.
Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain)
Dembélé’s performance last season was stellar, as he played a pivotal role in leading PSG to their first Champions League title while netting 35 goals. Despite facing some pressure, he’s started strong this season, contributing decisively in various matches.
Désiré Doué (Paris Saint-Germain)
After a significant summer transfer from Rennes, Doué, just 20 years old, burst onto the scene last season, scoring 16 goals. He not only won accolades as the best young player at the Club World Cup but has also been tasked with filling the void left by PSG’s star exits.
Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal)
Joining Arsenal for a hefty $86 million after a prolific campaign in Portugal, Gyökeres is expected to address the team’s long-standing need for a top striker. With a record of scoring 39 goals in 33 matches last season, he has the potential to bolster Arsenal’s title aspirations.
Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Entering his second season with Real Madrid, the French star scored a remarkable 44 goals last term. Despite individual success, the team’s aim will now shift towards securing collective achievements, following a disappointing run in previous competitions.
Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Having made an unexpected splash last season, Palmer scored 22 goals after moving from Manchester City. Coming off an impressive FIFA Club World Cup display, his upward trajectory is set to continue as the new season begins.
Christian Pulisic (AC Milan)
Pulisic faces a critical season after a tumultuous previous campaign, where he was absent during key matches. Coming off a record-setting performance at Milan, he looks to lead his team back to glory.
Raphinha (Barcelona)
While other teammates shone last season, Raphinha tallied an impressive 34 goals and assists. With his recent form, he hopes to maintain Barcelona’s momentum heading into the Champions League.
Florian Wirtz (Liverpool)
Record-breaker Wirtz is a key addition to Liverpool’s squad, having led Bayer Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title last season. His arrival at Anfield comes with high expectations as Liverpool aims to reclaim their status at the top.
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Just 18, Yamal has quickly solidified his place as one of the best talents in the world, already contributing significantly to both Barcelona and the national team. His possibilities seem endless as he prepares for his first FIFA World Cup.
Fan Take
The 2025-26 season is shaping up to be exhilarating, with fresh talent and established stars intertwining at Europe’s elite clubs. For fans, this rollercoaster of excitement promises unforgettable moments and could significantly impact the landscape of soccer for years to come.
