Premier League 2025: Players Who Failed to Meet Expectations
Premier League 2025 Season: Players Who Have Failed to Meet Expectations
Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
Few players entered the season with higher expectations than Marcus Rashford. However, his 2025 campaign has been marked by inconsistency and limited attacking influence.
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Goals and assists per 90 minutes have declined compared to his peak seasons
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Reduced effectiveness in one-on-one situations
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Often peripheral in matches against top-six opposition
Despite flashes of quality, Rashford has struggled to impose himself regularly, raising legitimate questions about form rather than talent.
Raheem Sterling (Chelsea)
Chelsea’s rebuild placed significant responsibility on experienced players like Raheem Sterling. While his work rate remains high, end product has been a recurring issue.
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Low goal conversion rate relative to chances received
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Inconsistent decision-making in the final third
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Limited influence in tight matches
Sterling’s season has not been disastrous, but it has failed to justify his role as a senior attacking leader.
Kai Havertz (Arsenal)
Kai Havertz’s move to Arsenal was always going to be scrutinised. In 2025, his performances have remained tactically useful but statistically underwhelming.
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Modest goal involvement for a player deployed high up the pitch
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Often effective off the ball, less decisive on it
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Struggles to dominate matches against deep-lying defences
While not a poor performer, Havertz has yet to fully meet expectations attached to his role and transfer value.
Richarlison (Tottenham Hotspur)
Richarlison’s Premier League struggles have continued into the 2025 season. Despite physical presence and effort, his attacking output remains below required levels.
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Prolonged goal droughts during key periods
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Confidence issues visible in finishing situations
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Often overshadowed by teammates in attacking phases
In a system that demands efficiency, Richarlison’s return has been a disappointment.
Antony (Manchester United)
Antony’s season has once again sparked debate. While his defensive work is valued, offensive contribution has been minimal.
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Very low goals and assists per season minutes
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Predictable attacking patterns
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Limited impact against compact defences
For a high-profile signing, his numbers remain difficult to justify in a league defined by output.
Conclusion
The Premier League’s intensity ensures that reputation alone is never enough. The 2025 season has highlighted how quickly expectations can turn into scrutiny when performances plateau. Importantly, disappointment does not equal failure — many of these players still possess the ability to recover form and redefine their roles.
However, based on consistent match data, contribution metrics and tactical influence, the players listed above have not matched the standards reasonably expected of them this season.
