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

Summer always brings transfers, new signings, and with them, a fresh wave of hope. But sometimes, the biggest buzz comes not from brand-new arrivals but from players returning after long absences — the true "Like A New Signing" moments.

This list highlights players from Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur who are about to make their comeback after injuries or loan spells, offering fans a chance to believe again.

10) Fabio Carvalho (Brentford)

Once a promising winger at Liverpool, Fabio suffered an ACL injury last November after only six Premier League appearances. Now back in action with Brentford's B team, he's slowly regaining fitness in behind-closed-doors matches, much to the delight of fans eager to see him play again.

9) Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool)

With Liverpool’s defensive challenges mounting following departures and injuries, Leoni was seen as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk. Unfortunately, a season-ending knee injury on his Carabao Cup debut delayed his progress. He has now returned to solo training, aiming for a September comeback, bringing hope to Liverpool’s centre-back options.

8) Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton)

Tzimas’s story combines injury recovery with Brighton’s need for goal-scoring energy after Danny Welbeck’s move to Chelsea. After an encouraging start marred by an ACL injury in his first Premier League start, he’s back in training and could help fill the scoring gap at the Amex Stadium.

7) Levi Colwill (Chelsea)

Chelsea’s defense struggled heavily in 25/26, partly due to Colwill’s lengthy injury absence. Returning only late in the season, he showed glimpses of stability at the back. With a new manager in place and fresh signings arriving, Colwill's full return could be vital for Chelsea’s defensive revival.

6) Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)

De Ligt played the first 13 games last season before a back issue sidelined him until surgery in May. Since then, changes at United have been significant. De Ligt is back in training and was a standout during sessions in Ireland, though his exact return date remains unclear. Still, he carries the aura of a Like A New Signing given the gap since his last involvement.

5) Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham Hotspur)

Injuries have plagued Tottenham’s squad, including key players like James Maddison and others. Kulusevski’s return from a long-term injury is eagerly anticipated. Though his comeback timeline is uncertain, his fitness could relieve pressure on Spurs’ struggling attack, with coach Roberto De Zerbi cautiously optimistic.

4) Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)

Doucoure might be the ultimate Like A New Signing candidate. Once Crystal Palace’s player of the year, injuries have kept him sidelined for almost three years. Recently spotted in pre-season squads, he looks set to contribute fresh energy under new manager Pierre Sage.

3) Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)

Jackson needs to stay at Chelsea to qualify here. Despite periods of inconsistency and jokes around his form, he has shown promise alongside Cole Palmer. Under new boss Xabi Alonso, Jackson has earned pre-season minutes and appears sharp, offering hope for a breakthrough this season.

2) Alexander Isak (Liverpool)

Isak’s first season at Liverpool was hindered by injuries and poor form, making him feel less like a true Liverpool player. Yet, with a managerial change and fresh tactics, there’s potential for Isak to finally fulfill expectations and become a key striker in the Premier League.

1) Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)

Rashford tops the list as the ultimate Like A New Signing. After loans to Aston Villa and Barcelona forced his departure during Ruben Amorim’s time as manager, Rashford is now back under Michael Carrick, who knows him well. Sporting a new squad number, he symbolizes a fresh start and renewed hope at Old Trafford.

Summary of Top 10 Like A New Signing Players:

• Fabio Carvalho: Brentford winger returning from ACL injury
• Giovanni Leoni: Liverpool centre-back recovering from knee injury
• Stefanos Tzimas: Brighton forward back after ACL setback
• Levi Colwill: Chelsea defender returning late last season
• Matthijs de Ligt: Manchester United defender overcoming back surgery
• Dejan Kulusevski: Tottenham attacker nearing comeback
• Cheick Doucoure: Crystal Palace midfielder recovering from long-term injuries
• Nicolas Jackson: Chelsea striker showing promise in pre-season
• Alexander Isak: Liverpool forward aiming to regain form
• Marcus Rashford: Manchester United star reintegrated after loan spells