As we delve into the heart of the 2024-2025 Premier League season, a select group of players have emerged as the shining lights in a league renowned for its fierce competition and breathtaking football. These individuals have not only met but exceeded expectations, carving out performances that have captivated fans and pundits alike. Their contributions on the pitch have been pivotal, each bringing a unique set of skills that have significantly influenced their teams’ campaigns. Let’s take a closer look at the players who’ve earned their stripes in our mid-season team of the season:
Premier League TOTSSF
Goalkeeper
Matz Sels – Nottingham Forest
Matz Sels has become a cornerstone for Nottingham Forest with his exceptional shot-stopping abilities. His presence in goal has been a calming influence, securing several crucial clean sheets that have helped Forest navigate through tough Premier League matches and maintain their position in the Champions League spots. Sels’ ability to anticipate and react swiftly to shots has been vital, but it’s his command of the penalty area and his distribution that have transformed him from a mere goalkeeper into a playmaker from the back. Forest have the third strongest defence in the league.
Defenders
Antonee Robinson – Fulham
Antonee Robinson has been a revelation on Fulham’s left flank, combining defensive solidity with an unexpected flair for the attack. His pace and agility make him a formidable defender, often thwarting the advances of even the most skilled wingers. However, it’s his contribution in the attacking third that has caught the eye, with a tally of ten Premier League assists highlighting his impressive impact. Robinson’s ability to overlap and deliver precise crosses or cut inside for a shot has added a dynamic edge to Fulham’s play. His defensive stats are equally impressive, with numerous tackles and interceptions showcasing his work rate. Robinson’s evolution into a modern full-back has been crucial for Fulham, bringing balance and versatility to their tactical setup.
Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool
Virgil van Dijk remains the standard-bearer for centre-backs in the Premier League. His authoritative presence at the heart of Liverpool’s defense has been instrumental in maintaining one of the league’s stingiest defenses. Van Dijk’s leadership and tactical acumen allow him to orchestrate the back line with an almost telepathic understanding of the game. His aerial prowess is unmatched, often winning crucial headers both in defense and attack.
Beyond his defensive duties, his long-range passing has been a key component in Liverpool’s transition from defense to attack, often bypassing multiple lines with a single, precise pass. Van Dijk’s consistency and Premier League game intelligence have been pivotal, not just in preventing goals but in setting the tone for Liverpool’s defensive resilience.
— 365Scores (@365Scores) January 6, 2025
Real Madrid rejected the chance to sign Virgil van Dijk?!
Imagine turning down the man who became the backbone of Liverpool's rise to European glory
Do you think Perez made the right call?pic.twitter.com/n31IdXxaHB
William Saliba – Arsenal
William Saliba has emerged as a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defensive strategy, bringing a level of composure and technical ability seldom seen in such a young defender. His coolness under pressure has transformed Arsenal’s backline into one of the most reliable in the league. Saliba’s ball-playing skills are remarkable, allowing Arsenal to play out from the back with confidence.
His ability to read the game and intercept passes before they become threats has been vital. His partnership with more experienced defenders has flourished, providing a solid foundation from which Arsenal can launch their attacks. Saliba’s maturity on the pitch and his seamless integration into the Premier League have marked him as one of the brightest prospects in European football.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – Liverpool
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s evolution at Liverpool continues to redefine the full-back position. His role has shifted, giving him more freedom to influence the game from central areas, yet he remains a defensive force on the right. His assist count stands at an impressive seven, underlining his creative influence. Alexander-Arnold’s set-piece mastery is well-known, with his deliveries from corners and free-kicks often leading to goals.
His defensive contributions have matured, balancing his attacking forays with solid defensive work, including crucial tackles and blocks. His vision and passing range from deep positions have made him indispensable to Liverpool’s Premier League strategy, showcasing a blend of attacking flair with defensive responsibility.
Midfielders
Ryan Gravenberch – Liverpool
Ryan Gravenberch‘s adaptation to the Premier League was initially difficult but his second season has been sharp and impactful, adding a youthful dynamism to Liverpool’s midfield. His ability to break lines with his passing and drive forward with the ball has been a revelation. Gravenberch’s physical presence in midfield battles combined with his technical skills make him a formidable opponent. His knack for arriving late in the box has added an extra dimension to Liverpool’s attack, while his defensive contributions have been equally notable, breaking up play and initiating counter-press. His integration into the squad has been seamless, providing a fresh energy to the midfield that has been crucial in maintaining Liverpool’s high tempo and pressing game.
Declan Rice – Arsenal
Declan Rice has become the linchpin in Arsenal’s midfield, orchestrating play with his all-encompassing skill set. His ability to read the game, intercept passes, and break up opposition attacks has been fundamental. Rice’s physicality and tactical awareness allow him to cover vast areas of the pitch, making him a shield for the defense and a launchpad for attacks. His leadership on the field has been evident, often seen directing play with confidence. His transition from West Ham has been nothing short of spectacular, with his performances underpinning Arsenal’s push for the Premier League title. Rice’s versatility, allowing him to play in various roles within the midfield, has made him an irreplaceable asset.
Cole Palmer – Chelsea
Cole Palmer has been the silver lining in Chelsea’s up-and-down season, emerging as one of the league’s most exciting young talents. With 14 goals and six assists, he’s been at the very heart of Chelsea’s attacking plays. His dribbling, vision, and ability to score from various positions have revitalized Chelsea’s forward line. Palmer’s composure in front of goal, combined with his capacity to create for others, has made him a pivotal player. His performances have not only won him accolades but have also ignited hope among Chelsea fans for a brighter future, showcasing a maturity and flair that belies his age.
Mohamed Salah – Liverpool
Mohamed Salah’s consistency and Premier League goal-scoring prowess continue to dazzle, with a tally of 21 goals and 13 assists this season. His speed, skill, and finishing have kept him at the forefront of world football. Salah’s ability to score from almost any position makes him a constant threat. His direct style of play, where he takes on defenders one-on-one, often results in either a goal or a chance creation for teammates. His work ethic off the ball is just as commendable, tracking back to help in defence, and showing his commitment to the team’s collective effort. Salah’s influence on games is profound, often turning the tide with moments of individual brilliance.
YOU have voted for Mohamed Salah ONCE AGAIN as 365Scores' Player of the Month! Safe to say Liverpool's star is a deserved pick! pic.twitter.com/sTGqtZeswo
— 365Scores (@365Scores) January 4, 2025
Strikers
Alexander Isak – Newcastle
Alexander Isak has been the spearhead of Newcastle’s attack, with 17 goals and 9 assists to his name. His movement off the ball, sharp finishing, and ability to hold up play have transformed Newcastle’s forward line. Isak’s versatility to play across the front three has been a tactical boon for the team. His performances have not only brought goals but have also lifted the spirits at St. James’ Park, with fans and teammates alike celebrating his arrival as one of the Premier League’s top strikers. His work rate and goal-scoring instinct make him a formidable presence in the penalty area.
Alexander Isak has now joined Freddie Ljungberg as the Swedish top goal-scorer in the Premier League with 48 goals! pic.twitter.com/we79lLT6Nk
— 365Scores (@365Scores) January 25, 2025
Chris Wood – Nottingham Forest
Chris Wood‘s resurgence has been one of the season’s most heartwarming stories, with 17 goals proving his worth to Nottingham Forest. His physical presence, work rate, and knack for scoring in crucial moments have been vital. Wood’s ability to link play and bring others into the game has been an added asset, showing there’s more to his game than just scoring. His performances have been pivotal in Forest’s fight for Europe, providing the goals needed to rack up the points. His dedication and professionalism have endeared him to the Forest faithful, proving that experience can still shine brightly in the Premier League.
By Nicky Helfgott – NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter)
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