The 2024-25 season has been nothing short of sensational. From unexpected performances to jaw-dropping transfers, football fans have been left in awe.
While many events have stunned us, certain players have been particularly shocking for various reasons. Here are 10 players who have surprised us the most this season.
1. Pedri – A Season of Unbelievable Fitness
Pedri has always been known for his immense talent, but what shocks us this season is his durability. The young midfielder, who has struggled with injuries in the past, has managed to stay fit for most of the season. After picking up an injury at the Euros, many feared another long spell on the sidelines. However, Pedri has played 38 out of 39 games this season—already matching his total appearances from last season, including international tournaments. His consistency has been nothing short of remarkable.
2. Ousmane Dembélé – The Unexpected Goal Machine
Ousmane Dembélé has never been considered a prolific goal scorer, but this season, he has shocked everyone. Last season, he only managed six goals across all competitions for PSG. This season, he has already scored six goals in the space of just three days! He currently leads the Ligue 1 Golden Boot race and is on course to win it. Even more shocking, Dembélé has already scored half the number of goals he netted in his entire six-year spell at Barcelona. Unbelievable!
3. Hugo Ekitiké – From PSG Reject to Bundesliga Star
Hugo Ekitiké was seen as a flop at PSG, where he managed just four goals over two years. But after moving to Eintracht Frankfurt in 2024, he has transformed into one of Germany’s best strikers, scoring 20 goals already this season. Sold for just €16.5 million, PSG clearly undervalued him. Now, he is a serious contender for the Bundesliga Golden Boot.
4. Chris Wood – The Veteran Goal Scorer
Chris Wood has been a well-known name in the Premier League, but no one expected him to be competing with the likes of Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland for the Golden Boot at 33. Playing for Nottingham Forest, Wood has already surpassed his previous goal tallies from Newcastle, Brighton, and West Brom in just 24 league appearances. He is enjoying the best season of his Premier League career, and it is only February.
5. Jacob Murphy – Newcastle’s Surprise Star
Jacob Murphy has been at Newcastle since 2017 but was never more than a squad player. This season, however, he has become a key part of the team. By January, Murphy had already surpassed his goal contributions from the entire previous season. The biggest shock? He is now a contender for the Premier League Playmaker of the Season award!
6. Jhon Durán – A Shocking Move to Saudi Arabia
Jhon Durán was one of the most sought-after young strikers in Europe, with top clubs, including Barcelona, reportedly interested. However, instead of waiting for a summer move to a European giant, he shocked everyone by joining Al Nassr in January. The reason? A reported 700% salary increase, tax-free. A surprising yet financially savvy move that could still see him return to Europe by the age of 26.
7. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – A Midseason Exit from Napoli
Napoli was on course for another Serie A title, and most expected Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to stay and lead them to glory. Instead, he shocked fans by moving to PSG midseason. The reason? An 800% salary increase. While the decision was unexpected, it’s hard to argue against the financial benefits and the opportunity to win trophies in Paris.
8. Nuno Tavares – Serie A’s Assist King
Nuno Tavares has struggled for consistency and has been loaned out every season since 2022. However, despite his underwhelming past performances, he currently leads Serie A in assists while playing for Lazio. This is the same player who failed to register a single assist over two full seasons at different clubs. His transformation in Italy is truly shocking.
9. Neymar – The Surprising Return to Santos
Neymar stunned the football world by returning to his boyhood club, Santos, on a six-month deal. The move was unexpected, especially since he reportedly gave up $71 million from Al-Hilal to make it happen. Many believed Neymar had turned his back on European football, but this transfer suggests he still has ambitions to return in the summer.
10. Mohammed Kudus – A Season to Forget
Many expected Mohammed Kudus to shine in the Premier League this season. However, he has been a shadow of the player who was highly sought after last season. Poor performances, reckless red cards, and a loss of form have made him one of the biggest disappointments of the season. Can he bounce back under new management? Only time will tell.
Who Has Shocked You the Most?
This season has been full of surprises, with unexpected performances and transfers shaking up the football world. Are there any other players who have left you in shock? Let us know in the comments!
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