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Top 10 Like A New Signing Contenders for 26/27 Season Featuring Stars from Man United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Spurs

Summer transfers bring fresh hope, even if it often feels misplaced. But nothing sparks excitement quite like a player returning after injury or loan—what we call a 'Like A New Signing' moment. It’s the thrill of rediscovering a familiar face who might fill gaps unexpectedly.

10) Fabio Carvalho (Brentford)

Carvalho is one of the ACL injury victims making this list. Out since last November after just six Premier League appearances, he recently made his comeback in a behind-closed-doors match for Brentford’s B team against Swansea U21s—a humble but promising step back.

9) Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool)

Liverpool's defensive lineup is fragile with Konate gone and Jacquet still injured. Leoni, signed to eventually replace Van Dijk, suffered a season-ending knee injury on his debut. Now back in solo training, he’s eyeing a September return, offering hope amid a defensive crisis.

8) Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton)

Tzimas’ story combines injury and club context. After a £21m move from Germany, he showed promise before an ACL injury on his first Premier League start halted him. Back in training, he might be key in filling the void left by Danny Welbeck’s departure to Chelsea.

7) Levi Colwill (Chelsea)

Chelsea’s defence was a nightmare last season, conceding multiple goals consistently. Colwill, mostly sidelined by injury, only returned late to hint at what was missing—a reliable central defender. With a new manager and fresh signings, Chelsea has several players who could provide Like A New Signing energy.

6) Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)

De Ligt played every game early last season before a back injury sidelined him and required surgery. Much has changed at Manchester United since then, making his return feel like a fresh start despite the uncertain timeline.

5) Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham)

Kulusevski remains Tottenham’s best Like A New Signing hope amid an injury-riddled squad. Reports say he’s back in some form of training after 15 months out. His return could ease pressure on Spurs’ attack, with coach De Zerbi cautiously optimistic about an early comeback.

4) Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)

Doucoure epitomizes Like A New Signing. Once Crystal Palace’s 22/23 player of the year, injuries have limited him to 13 Premier League appearances since late 2023. Pre-season signs suggest he’s returning to fitness, ready to inject energy under new boss Pierre Sage.

3) Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)

Jackson needs to stay at Chelsea to qualify here. Despite being mocked at times, there’s clear talent beneath. New manager Xabi Alonso has given him pre-season minutes and he looks sharp. His partnership with Cole Palmer could be vital for Chelsea’s attack this season.

2) Alexander Isak (Liverpool)

Isak’s first Liverpool season was marred by injuries and poor form, making him feel like he isn’t really part of the team yet. With a new manager and fresh approaches, his revival could be crucial, especially given Liverpool’s lack of elite strikers.

1) Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)

Rashford tops the list as the ultimate Like A New Signing if he reintegrates at Old Trafford. After loans and managerial changes, a reunion with Michael Carrick offers a fresh chapter. He’s back with a new squad number, signaling a clean slate and renewed hope for the club and fans alike.

Summary of Top 10 Like A New Signing Contenders

  • 10: Fabio Carvalho (Brentford) – Returned post ACL injury
  • 9: Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool) – Back after season-ending knee injury
  • 8: Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton) – Recovering from ACL, poised to fill Welbeck’s gap
  • 7: Levi Colwill (Chelsea) – Late-season return hints at better defense
  • 6: Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United) – Returning from back surgery
  • 5: Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham) – Training again after long injury layoff
  • 4: Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace) – Injury comeback after nearly two years
  • 3: Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea) – Looking sharp in pre-season
  • 2: Alexander Isak (Liverpool) – New manager may revive form
  • 1: Marcus Rashford (Manchester United) – Reintegrated for a fresh start

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