The end of 2023 and the start of 2024 can’t come quick enough for some of the Premier League’s top players. A loss of form or failure to succeed at a new club after a big transfer has rendered 2023 as a year to forget. But for others, seemingly endless injury problems have denied them the chance to rediscover their best form and reclaim a first-team place.
André Onana, the Manchester United goalkeeper, has had a rollercoaster of a year. After shining for Inter Milan and reaching the Champions League final, he earned a £43.8 million move to Old Trafford. However, since replacing David de Gea, Onana has struggled to find his footing, making a series of calamitous errors that have contributed to United’s dismal first half of the season. Despite a few highs, including a stoppage-time penalty save, overall, Onana has proven to be unreliable and inconsistent.
Reeve James, the Chelsea defender, has had a year marred by injuries. He has faced multiple layoffs, totaling at least seven, due to various issues. This string of injuries has prevented him from maintaining his form and securing a regular spot in the first-team. While James is recognized as Chelsea’s first-choice right-back and even captain when fit, his latest setback, a hamstring injury, will likely delay his return until March of 2024.
Eric Dier, once a key player for both Tottenham and the England national team, has fallen out of favor. Despite representing England in the World Cup, Dier has struggled to get game time at Tottenham under new manager Ange Postecoglou. Making only two Premier League appearances this season, with just one start, Dier’s future looks uncertain. With Postecoglou indicating that Dier doesn’t fit into his plans, the 29-year-old will likely be seeking a transfer in 2024.
Manchester City made a significant investment in signing Domagoj Gvardiol, a highly sought-after defensive talent, for £77.6 million. However, Gvardiol has struggled to adapt to the intensity and pace of the Premier League. Manager Pep Guardiola often deploys him at left-back, despite his reputation as a center-half. With established defenders ahead of him in the pecking order, Gvardiol has found it challenging to find his form at City.
Marc Cucurella’s career has taken a detour since joining Chelsea. Originally on the verge of a move from Brighton to Manchester City, Chelsea disrupted the transfer by offering a higher bid. Unfortunately, Cucurella’s time at Stamford Bridge has been marked by instability. Under his fourth manager in less than 18 months, Mauricio Pochettino, doubts have been cast on the 25-year-old’s abilities. Playing out of position at right-back in a recent defeat, Cucurella was ultimately substituted at half-time. A change of scenery may be necessary for him to regain his form and confidence.
Gonzalo Fernandez’s Price Tag Burden
Gonzalo Fernandez’s transfer to Chelsea from Benfica for £105 million made him the most expensive player in Premier League history at the time. Despite his significant talent, the constant turbulence at Chelsea has hindered his ability to settle. The frequent changes of players and coaches have disrupted his progress, making it a tough year for the 22-year-old midfielder.
Kalvin Phillips, a Manchester City midfielder, has found limited opportunities at his club despite excelling for the England national team. While he started four games last season and won several major trophies, including the Champions League, he has only started one game this season. Manager Pep Guardiola has made it clear that Phillips can leave the club if he finds a new opportunity elsewhere. This situation has led to a rare scenario where Phillips appears more frequently for his country than his club side.
Mason Mount, Manchester United’s first summer signing in 2023, has faced a string of injuries and loss of form, preventing him from making a significant impact at the club. Since his arrival from Chelsea in a £55 million transfer, Mount has managed only eight appearances in all competitions. His injury troubles began even before his move to Old Trafford, and they have persisted, denying him the chance to impress his manager, Erik ten Hag. As a result, Mount has been absent from the England squad throughout the year.
Antony, signed by Manchester United for a hefty £85 million fee from Ajax, has struggled to live up to expectations. With no goals and no assists for the club this season, Antony’s lack of impact has raised doubts about his abilities. He has proven to be expensive mistake, contributing only two goals and two assists in the Premier League throughout the year. Additionally, his one-footedness and lack of pace have further hindered his progress at United.
Similarly, Marcus Rashford, who enjoyed a fantastic early stretch in 2023, scoring 14 goals in his first 16 games, has experienced a sharp decline. After helping Manchester United win the Carabao Cup, Rashford’s goal-scoring form evaporated. Since then, he has struggled to find the back of the net, scoring only eight goals in 40 appearances. His reputation as a top striker has suffered, and he has lost his starting place at the club.
Vlad Mudryk’s story is one of unfulfilled potential. Joining Chelsea for a staggering £88 million fee, Mudryk had hoped for a move to Arsenal but ended up at Stamford Bridge instead. His time at Chelsea has been marked by frustration and disappointment. However, there are glimpses of hope, such as his late equalizer in the Carabao Cup quarterfinal. Perhaps this moment can serve as a turning point for his career at Chelsea.
2023 has been a difficult year for several Premier League players. Whether due to injuries, loss of form, or struggles to adapt to new clubs, these players have faced setbacks in their careers. As the year comes to a close, they will be looking to turn the page and make 2024 a year of redemption and resurgence.