Centre-back – Armel Bella-Kotchap
Again, a signing that may have gone slightly under the radar for some people, but Bella-Kotchap has had a fantastic start to life in England. At just 20 years old, to start regularly in the Premier League and show such maturity in his performances is testament to his character.
Southampton have targeted young, up-and-coming stars in their recent recruitment, and it’s already starting to pay off.
Left-back – Oleksandr Zinchenko
Zinchenko spent the majority of his Manchester City career being rotated in and out of the team. The Ukrainian has immense technical ability, making him suited to a Pep Guardiola side, but we’re now seeing another side to Zinchenko, with Arsenal giving him the chance to play week-in-week-out.
Zinchenko has shown his ability going forward and what he can offer creatively for Arsenal, as well as showing his defensive nous.
Centre-midfield – Joao Palhinha
Fulham have enjoyed an impressive start to their return to the Premier League. Many expected Marco Silva’s side to struggle, but they currently sit in the top half of the Premier League.
One key reason is the signing of former Sporting midfielder Palhinha. The 27-year-old has already contributed with a goal, as well as showing his ability to break up play and dictate the game.