Eli Junior Kroupi leads 13 emerging talents for Premier League season

Eli Junior Kroupi, Igor Thiago, and Nico O'Reilly emerged as breakout stars in last season's Premier League, but attention is now shifting to the next wave of talent. BBC Sport commentators have identified 13 players to watch this season, featuring a mix of new signings, wonder kids, and late bloomers who could make a significant impact in the league.

One name to watch is 18-year-old midfielder Steur, recently signed by Newcastle United for a potential fee of up to £23 million. He joined the club before Eddie Howe's departure and has already made a mark in Europe with Ajax, where he played 25 matches last season. Steur is versatile, capable of performing in defensive midfield or more advanced roles. His transition from the Dutch league to the Premier League is challenging, especially given Newcastle’s current restructuring. However, with experienced players like Lewis Miley around, Steur has the opportunity to develop and seize moments when they arise.

Another player generating buzz is 20-year-old Yirenkyi, who joined newly promoted Coventry City for a club-record fee of about £25 million from FC Nordsjaelland. The Ghanaian midfielder shone during the World Cup, appearing in all four of his country's matches and proving his capabilities on the international stage. His versatility allows him to adapt to different midfield roles, and he has a track record of success, having been named Young Player of the Year in the Danish Superliga last season. With a coach like Frank Lampard, Yirenkyi could thrive and elevate his game further.

The emergence of these young talents highlights the changing landscape of the Premier League, where clubs are increasingly investing in potential rather than established stars. As the season unfolds, the performances of Steur, Yirenkyi, and others on this list could significantly influence their teams' fortunes, making the league even more competitive and exciting for fans.