Discover the breakout stars and most improved footballers redefining the 2025/26 league season with stunning performances.

Most Improved Players of the 2025/26 Season

Each Aw8 Sg season tells its own story—but some of the most compelling narratives come from players who defy expectations and elevate their game. The 2025/26 league season has been no different, with numerous stars making massive strides in form, confidence, and impact on the pitch.

From once-forgotten names to breakout sensations, this article explores the most improved players across the major European leagues, analyzing how they’ve transformed their careers and contributed to their teams’ fortunes.

🔥 1. Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)

Improvement: From promising bench option to full-time starter and goal contributor
After a lukewarm 2024/25, Garnacho has stepped up significantly under United’s evolving setup. His acceleration, direct dribbling, and newly sharpened end product have made him a mainstay on the wing.

• Goals this season: 10

• Assists: 8

• Key stat: 1.6 successful dribbles per game

His improved decision-making and work rate have earned comparisons to elite wingers, and he’s now seen as central to United’s long-term plans.

✨ 2. Rayan Cherki (Lyon)

Improvement: Unlocking his final-third potential
Long regarded as a flair player without consistency, Cherki has finally found maturity and rhythm in Ligue 1. He’s dictating games with creativity, scoring more frequently, and contributing defensively—something that previously held him back.

• Chances created per game: 2.5

• Progressive passes per 90: 6.1

Cherki’s growth has sparked renewed interest from top Premier League clubs.

🛡️ 3. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)

Improvement: Defensive stability and tactical versatility
After a season marred by injury, Timber has returned stronger in 2025/26. Whether deployed as a right-back or a left-sided centre-back, he has shown exceptional composure, anticipation, and technical ability.

• Interceptions per 90: 2.2

• Pass accuracy: 92%

His comeback has solidified Arsenal’s backline and added crucial depth during their title charge.

⚡ 4. Arda Güler (Real Madrid)

Improvement: From squad player to midfield maestro
Arda Güler has broken out in style this season. With injuries to veteran midfielders, the Turkish prodigy has stepped in and dazzled with his intelligence, ball control, and shooting from range.

• Goals: 6

• Key passes per game: 2.1

He’s not just Real Madrid’s future—he’s now a vital part of their present.

🎯 5. Brennan Johnson (Tottenham Hotspur)

Improvement: From role player to key attacker
Johnson’s pace has always been evident, but this season he’s added productivity and composure. Working under Ange Postecoglou’s high-intensity system, he’s become a reliable outlet on the wing.

• Goal contributions: 12

• Pressures per game: 18

His versatility has allowed Spurs to adapt tactically while maintaining offensive potency.

🧱 6. Jean-Clair Todibo (OGC Nice)

Improvement: Breakout season as a defensive leader
Todibo has been immense this campaign, demonstrating aerial dominance and leadership at the back. He’s one of Ligue 1’s standout defenders and is now on the radar of top European clubs.

• Clearances per game: 5.3

• Duels won %: 67%

His maturity and composure are a far cry from his inconsistent early career.

🔄 7. Manu Koné (Borussia Mönchengladbach)

Improvement: Becoming the engine of the midfield
Koné has gone from being a physical presence to a complete midfielder. His progressive play, defensive contributions, and tactical understanding have put him in the conversation as one of the Bundesliga’s best midfielders.

• Tackles per game: 3.2

• Dribble success: 85%

A future France international in the making.

🧤 8. Guglielmo Vicario (Tottenham Hotspur)

Improvement: From underrated signing to elite shot-stopper
In his second season in North London, Vicario has elevated his performances. His command of the area, distribution, and reflexes have all improved, making him one of the best keepers in the league.

• Save percentage: 79%

• Clean sheets: 10+

He’s proving he belongs in the conversation with the league’s elite goalkeepers.

💡 9. Yusuf Yazıcı (Lille)

Improvement: Career revival and tactical intelligence
Previously inconsistent, Yazıcı has flourished under a more structured system. He’s adding goals, assists, and vision to his game while maintaining defensive discipline.

• Goal contributions: 13

• Touches in the final third: Among Ligue 1 leaders

He’s now back on the Turkish national team radar.

🧠 10. João Neves (Benfica)

Improvement: Emerging as a midfield star
At just 20, Neves has shown the composure and tactical IQ of a veteran. His passing range, ball recovery, and tempo control have drawn comparisons to Sergio Busquets.

• Ball recoveries per 90: 9.8

• Pass completion rate: 93%

He’s been linked with clubs like Manchester United and Juventus, and a big move may be on the horizon.

📊 What Drives Improvement?

Improvement in elite football often stems from:

• Tactical clarity from managers

• Trust and consistent game time

• Physical development and maturity

• A new role or position that suits a player’s strengths

These ten players are the best examples of how growth can explode when the right conditions are met.

🏁 Final Thoughts: The League Is in Good Hands

As the 2025/26 season progresses, these rising stars and redefined veterans remind us that football is a sport of transformation. Whether through fresh tactics, coaching changes, or personal evolution, these players have added immense value to their clubs and the league as a whole.

👉 Which improved player impressed you most? Join the conversation and continue supporting the growth of the league by sharing, debating, and celebrating the best of the beautiful game.