The 2025/26 season is already shocking a few fans, bringing a range of results, events, and players who people may not have expected to have a massive impact. All 3 promoted sides were big favourites to face the drop, but with a fight at the bottom of the table closer than ever, the season is shaping up to be a dramatic one, even at the top end. The difference between teams this year could be a result of individual brilliance, even from players you may not expect. So today, BoyleSports, the home of UK live casino games, will be taking a look at 5 unexpected players who have shocked the Premier League so far.
Granit Xhaka
Arguably, the signing of the season, Granit Xhaka’s return to the Premier League, was a shock to many, possibly a surprise to the midfielder himself. The 33-year-old has plenty of experience, especially in England’s top flight after spending 7 years with Arsenal. His move back to Germany may have signified the beginning of the end for the Swiss captain, joining Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen in 2023. His time at Leverkusen was a success, completing an undefeated campaign and captaining the side to history. However, in 2025, Regis Le Bris Sunderland enquired about purchasing the leader for €13 million, which looks like one of the best pieces of business, helping Sunderland have an extremely positive start to the season. His leadership qualities and ability on the ball have been vital for the Black Cats.
Danny Welbeck
Another veteran of the game, Danny Welbeck, has surprised many at the start of this year’s campaign. The 34-year-old English forward has played a pivotal role in helping Brighton achieve strong results, despite not playing to the level they have shown in previous seasons. Welbeck’s Premier League experience comes from his time at Manchester United as a youngster, Sunderland, Arsenal, and Watford, extending his time in the top flight after signing for the Seagulls in 2020. His electric start to the season could not have been more unpredictable after what has been a relatively injury-filled career. Still, despite his age, his class is shining through, highlighting how dangerous a player he can be. Rumours have spread that he is even being considered to rejoin the England setup, with fans hoping his form continues for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Antoine Semenyo
The Ghanaian international has played a pivotal role in helping Bournemouth pull off some shock results and upsets on their mission to qualify for a European competition. If it wasn’t for the robotic nature of Erling Haaland, Semenyo would be up there with Welbeck for the golden boot, netting goals for Brighton and Leeds, scoring a double at Anfield and Fulham at home. Bournemouth’s positive start has shocked fans in general, after losing almost their entire back line that was praised so highly last season, with Semenyo playing a key role in their success. As Bournemouth look to continue their spell in the top quarter of the table, the 24-year-old could be their key to achieving their end of season goal.
Marc Guehi
After what was a very awkward transfer saga for the English centre back, Marc Guehi has shown his class for Crystal Palace, leading the side to an unexpected FA Cup triumph, Community Shield victory, and first-time qualifying for a European competition. The Eagles’ strong start has continued with Guehi at the heart of the defense and leadership. Although his deadline day move to Liverpool fell through in a dramatic fashion, he returned to Palace with as much desire to win as in the previous season. The 25 year old has become a target for the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich as a result of his ability and mentality, which have been present at the start of the season. Palace are looking to qualify for Europe yet again, while also on a mission to reclaim their FA Cup and win the UEFA Conference League, and with Guehi in the side, there is no reason this is not possible.
Jack Grealish
Although he may be a player who is known to have incredible levels of talent, Grealish has not been able to show his level since his £100 million move to Manchester City. The English winger has been isolated from international duty as of late, due to his lack of gametime, so a loan deal to Everton seemed like the perfect move. While people expected the 30 year old to roll back the years and show off the level he once had, not many expected him to pick up a Player of the Month award and begin to compete for the playmaker award. He’s been electric so far for the Toffees, and if they want to get anything from this season, Grealish could be the missing piece to bringing them success.
