Three Premier League players have caught the eye for their versatility which could make them game-changers in the coming season: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Marcus Rashford, and Julian Alvarez.
They have distinguished themselves by their flexibility and adaptability — qualities which will be needed in the coming season.
In the middle of a relatively quiet transfer market, clubs are coming up with innovative ideas for the 2023–24 Premier League season, which begins with defending champions Manchester City facing newly promoted Burnley.
The tactical use of adaptable squad members as a result of the lack of significant signings could end up being a blessing in disguise. By reducing reliance on a single player, this strategy gives teams unexpected new strengths.
Three Premier League players
Let’s focus on three remarkably adaptable players who are ready to succeed in new roles in the upcoming season.
1. Trent Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool remained in seventh place after 28 game weeks, seven points behind Manchester United. Trent Alexander-Arnold was then transformed into a hybrid midfielder in a 3-2-2-3 system by manager Jurgen Klopp. The bold move paid off. Up until a late slip-up consigned them to fifth place, Liverpool dominated 10 games with eight straight victories, with Alexander-Arnold thriving as an inverted full-back turned midfielder. With seven assists and a goal in that period, Alexander-Arnold stood out above Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Gabriel Jesus.
Jurgen Klopp is ready to benefit from his novel approach as the season progresses because he had enough time to implement it over the offseason. This is especially encouraging for Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose midfield influence is set to grow in the upcoming games. Taking clues from last season, it becomes clear that he is hungry and ready to succeed in his new job.
2. Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford’s talent in the incredible 2022–23 Premier League season eclipsed all other Manchester United players. Rashford scored an incredible 30 goals across all competitions, helping United to a third-place finish in the Premier League, an EFL Cup victory, and a spot in the FA Cup final.
Rashford often plays on the left wing, but when the club faced difficulties, he shifted to the striker position, demonstrating his versatility. But Rashford’s presence up front left a loophole, too, which Liverpool exploited in a surprising 7-0 triumph over United with Trent Alexander-Arnold leading the attack.
3. Julian Alvarez
After joining Manchester City, Julian Alvarez shot into the football spotlight, but his real moment of brilliance came at the 2022 World Cup, where he was essential to Argentina’s success. Alvarez outperformed seasoned players like Dybala and Martinez while serving as a flexible attacker deployed by Lionel Scaloni, displaying his keen spatial awareness, nimble link-up play, and precise finishing. The 23-year-old’s ascent solidifies his place alongside Messi in football’s elite as a player who excels at pressing and off-the-ball movement.