Top 10 Like A New Signing Candidates for 26/27 Season Featuring Stars from Man United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Spurs

Summer transfers bring fresh hope, but nothing quite matches the thrill of a "Like A New Signing"—players returning from injury or loans who feel like fresh additions to their squads. This list highlights ten such players who could impact their teams this season.

10) Fabio Carvalho (Brentford)

The former Liverpool winger suffered an ACL injury last November after only six Premier League appearances. He has recently returned in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Brentford's B team, marking his comeback after a tough spell out.

9) Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool)

Liverpool’s centre-back situation is uncertain. With Ibrahima Konate gone, Jeremy Jacquet injured, and others on loan, Leoni, signed as Virgil van Dijk’s long-term replacement, missed almost a year due to a season-ending knee injury on his debut. He's back in solo training and may return in September, offering hope to Liverpool's defense.

8) Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton)

Brighton’s £21m signing from Germany had a cruel introduction with an ACL injury during his first Premier League start. Now back in training, he might fill the gap left by Danny Welbeck’s move to Chelsea, providing much-needed goals and energy.

7) Levi Colwill (Chelsea)

Chelsea’s defense struggled badly last season, partly due to injuries. Colwill, a central defender, spent most of the campaign sidelined but returned late in the season showing signs of solidity. With a new manager onboard and several new signings, Chelsea hopes Like A New Signing stories will help turn things around.

6) Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)

De Ligt was consistent until a back problem sidelined him last season, eventually leading to surgery. Though his return date is unclear, the changes at United since his last appearance mean his comeback will feel like a fresh start, boosting the squad depth.

5) Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham)

Injuries have plagued Tottenham’s attempts to find Like A New Signing sparks, with James Maddison also sidelined again. Reports suggest Kulusevski might be back in training 15 months after his injury. His return would ease pressure on Spurs' attack, which has needed reinforcements badly.

4) Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)

Doucoure, Crystal Palace’s 2022/23 player of the year, has been mostly absent due to injuries including an Achilles tear and knee issues. Now appearing in pre-season, the Mali midfielder looks set to bring vital energy to Pierre Sage’s side after two difficult years.

3) Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)

Jackson must remain a Chelsea player to qualify here, as moving clubs would reset his status. Despite ups and downs, he has looked sharp in pre-season under Xabi Alonso, especially alongside Cole Palmer. Jackson could prove an important attacking option this season.

2) Alexander Isak (Liverpool)

Isak’s first season at Liverpool was marred by injuries and poor form, making him feel unfamiliar in the squad. The change in management offers hope for a revival. If he regains fitness and form, Isak could stand out in a league lacking elite strikers.

1) Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)

Rashford tops the list as the ultimate Like A New Signing candidate. After loan spells and being out of favor under previous management, he’s back at Old Trafford with a new squad number. The fresh start symbolizes a renewed chapter for the club’s top earner and fans alike.

Summary of Players and Clubs

• Fabio Carvalho: Brentford, recovering from ACL injury
• Giovanni Leoni: Liverpool, center-back returning from knee injury
• Stefanos Tzimas: Brighton, returning from ACL injury
• Levi Colwill: Chelsea, defender back from injury
• Matthijs de Ligt: Manchester United, returning after back surgery
• Dejan Kulusevski: Tottenham, close to returning from long-term injury
• Cheick Doucoure: Crystal Palace, midfielder recovering from multiple injuries
• Nicolas Jackson: Chelsea, striker impressing in pre-season
• Alexander Isak: Liverpool, hoping for a breakthrough season
• Marcus Rashford: Manchester United, reintegrated after loan spells