The Premier League is the most intense league in world football. It’s not just about skill—it’s about work rate, determination, and the willingness to cover every blade of grass.
Some players are technical wizards, others are goal-scoring machines, but the hardest-working players? They set the tone for their teams, giving everything on the pitch from the first whistle to the last. Here’s a look at the top ten hardest-working players in the Premier League.
10. Youri Tielemans (Aston Villa)
Once criticized for a lack of energy, Youri Tielemans has undergone a stunning transformation at Aston Villa. Under Unai Emery, the Belgian midfielder has reinvented himself as one of the most industrious players in the league. While he has always been known for his passing and long-range shooting, what’s changed is his work off the ball. He presses high, wins back possession, and disrupts the opposition’s build-up, proving his doubters wrong with an incredible work rate.
9. Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth)
Solanke’s journey has been one of resilience. After struggling at Liverpool, he looked like a forgotten talent when he joined Bournemouth. However, relegation in 2020 proved to be a turning point. He rebuilt himself in the Championship, and upon Bournemouth’s return to the Premier League, his relentless work ethic became evident. Now at Spurs, he covers an average of 12 kilometers per game and completes at least 25 sprints, showcasing his relentless pressing and commitment.
8. Lewis Cook (Bournemouth)
Cook’s career has been disrupted by two ACL injuries, costing him over 500 days of action. Lesser players might have faded away, but Cook fought back and is now one of Bournemouth’s most reliable performers. He covers huge distances in midfield, breaks up play, and even fills in at full-back when needed. His contributions might not always make the highlight reel, but they are crucial to his team’s success.
7. Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)
Szoboszlai has quickly adapted to the Premier League’s intensity, becoming a vital part of Liverpool’s midfield. While his attacking runs are eye-catching, what truly sets him apart is his defensive commitment. He has won back possession over 100 times this season, constantly pressing opponents and disrupting play high up the pitch. His relentless energy and all-action style make him a key player for the Reds.
6. Christian Norgaard (Brentford)
Norgaard may not grab headlines, but he is an integral part of Brentford’s high-intensity playstyle. He ranks among the league’s best in tackles and interceptions, consistently disrupting opposition attacks. His ability to win back possession and transition quickly into attack makes him indispensable, and Brentford’s system wouldn’t function the same way without his tireless work in midfield.
5. Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham Hotspur)
Kulusevski is a player who never stops running. He set a record by covering 13.36 km in a single match against Manchester United. But it’s not just about running—it’s intelligent movement. He presses defenders, tracks back, and creates space for his teammates. Under Ange Postecoglou, he has elevated his work rate, often being Spurs’ first line of defense when they lose the ball. He has registered over 100 recoveries this season while covering nearly 11 km per game.
4. Ryan Christie (Bournemouth)
Christie might not be the first name that comes to mind in a discussion about the Premier League’s hardest workers, but Bournemouth fans know his value. Originally a winger, he has transitioned into a central midfield role and leads his team in distance covered per match. His relentless pressing and ability to disrupt opposition play make him a crucial asset, with 158 recoveries and 26 interceptions to his name.
3. Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
Since arriving from Middlesbrough, Rogers has made an instant impact at Aston Villa. Initially seen as a squad player, his work rate and ball-carrying ability have earned him a bigger role under Unai Emery. His defensive work is particularly impressive—he presses with intensity, tracks back, and never shies away from a duel. His hard work has even caught the attention of England manager Gareth Southgate.
2. Kai Havertz (Arsenal)
Havertz has faced plenty of criticism throughout his career, but his work rate has never been in doubt. This season at Arsenal, he has been their most industrious player, leading the team in distance covered, pressures, and sprints. His pressing from the front is crucial to Mikel Arteta’s system, and Arsenal’s intensity noticeably drops when he’s not on the pitch. His tireless energy makes him one of the hardest-working players in the league.
1. Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United)
At the top of the list is Newcastle’s midfield engine, Bruno Guimaraes. He covered an astonishing 423.09 km in the 2023/24 season, more than any other player in the league. He does it all—winning possession, initiating attacks, and providing defensive cover. With over 100 ball recoveries and nearly 200 duels won, his tireless work rate makes him indispensable for Newcastle. Without him, the Magpies simply don’t function the same way.
Conclusion
These players may not always get the headlines, but their relentless work ethic is the backbone of their teams. From midfield engines to pressing forwards, their contributions are invaluable. With so many hard-working stars in the league, which one would you want at your club? Let us know in the comments!
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