Omar Marmoush, a 25-year-old Egyptian forward for Eintracht Frankfurt, has had a breakout season, showcasing incredible finishing and dynamic play. His versatility as a wide forward who can also play through the middle has drawn comparisons to Mohamed Salah. With a potential transfer value of €60-80 million, he is expected to make a big move to a top club, making him a key player to watch.
Martin Zubimendi, a holding midfielder for Real Sociedad, is considered one of the best in his position after Rodri. Known for his game intelligence, pressing resistance, and ability to control the tempo, he turned down a move to Liverpool last summer but is now ready for a big transfer. With a €60 million release clause, he is likely to attract interest from top Premier League clubs like Manchester City.
Angelo Stiller, a 23-year-old midfielder for Stuttgart, has had a breakout season, quietly controlling games with his pressing resistance and build-up play. Formerly at Bayern Munich, he has flourished under coach Sebastian Hoeneß and is expected to make a big move, potentially to the Premier League, as his development continues to impress.
Maghnes Akliouche, a 22-year-old midfielder for Monaco, has shown significant development, particularly in the Champions League. Known for his left-footed creativity, energy, and goal contributions, he is linked with clubs like Newcastle. His ability to perform at a high level and his potential for further growth make him a player to watch.
Nico Paz, a 20-year-old Argentine attacking midfielder for Como, has taken Serie A by storm with his elegance, creativity, and technical ability. Signed from Real Madrid, he has already shown leadership and control in midfield. Real Madrid has a buyback clause for €9 million, making him a likely candidate to return to the Spanish giants.
Paul Wanner, an 18-year-old midfielder on loan from Bayern Munich to Heidenheim, has shown resilience and technical ability in a tough Bundesliga environment. His versatility as a number 10 or wide player, combined with his dribbling skills, makes him a standout talent. He is also at the center of a tussle between the German and Austrian national teams for his allegiance.
Joan Martinez, a 17-year-old center-back for Real Madrid, has already impressed in his limited first-team appearances. Despite a cruciate injury, he is seen as a potential successor to Sergio Ramos due to his talent and personality. Real Madrid has high hopes for his future, even if he spends time elsewhere before returning.
The PSG vs. Man City fixture in the new Champions League format is a high-stakes game, potentially determining which team advances to the knockout stages. Both clubs are among Europe's elite, and the match is expected to be a tactical and emotional battle, with significant implications for their seasons.
The expanded Club World Cup in 2025, featuring 32 teams and 12 venues in the U.S., is expected to be a major event despite concerns about fixture congestion. While some criticize it for favoring wealthy clubs, others are excited to see top teams like Bayern Munich face amateur sides like Auckland City, creating unique matchups.
The Women's Euros in Switzerland in 2025 is expected to be an open tournament, with Spain as favorites but facing strong competition from teams like England, France, and the Netherlands. The group stage features intense rivalries, such as England vs. France and England vs. Wales, making it a highly anticipated event.
John Bennett is joined by Guillem Balague, Julien Laurens and Rafa Honigstein for the first Euro Leagues of 2025. They discuss the match they are most looking forward and highlight players you should keep an eye on in 2025. From Omar Marmousch at Eintracht Frankfurt to the young Argentine flourishing at Como, they pick out players who could be set for a big move, those on the cusp of great things and a couple of youngsters making big strides. They also pick out something that they are looking forward to in football this year – and end the show with some predictions.
TIMECODES
0 mins: Introduction and New Year’s Resolutions
1 min: Fixtures to look forward to in 2025.
7 mins: Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmousch.
12 mins: Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
15 mins: Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller.
20 mins: Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche.
25 mins: Como’s Nico Paz.
29 mins: Heidenheim’s Paul Wanner (on loan from Bayern Munich).
33 mins: Real Madrid’s Joan Martinez.
35 mins: The team discuss something that they are looking forward to seeing in football in 2025.