Reminiscently to every other season, Serie A will be the home of some of the biggest stars in the sport today. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Romelu Lukaku and Cristiano Ronaldo (besides any shocking twists) should ply their trade in the Italian league once more, where they will be fighting for the biggest honors on both individual and collective levels.
Nonetheless, with every new season, lesser names emerge from the shadows and decide to seize the moment. So which players for the top clubs will be the surprise packages of the upcoming Serie A campaign? We might not have definitive answers yet, but we surely can make some predictions.
Inter: Stefano Sensi
The former Sassuolo and Palermo man is undoubtedly one of the most talented midfielders in the country.
Nonetheless, several factors have thus far prevented him from displaying his best football at Inter, which can be resumed as the following: Recurring injury problems, strong competition and a non-compatible manager.
Whilst the Nerazzurri fans can only hope that his injury record eases up next term, Christian Eriksen’s unfortunate medical condition could provide the Italian with the chance to feature more regularly, and one would feel that his characteristics would be much more appreciated by Simone Inzaghi comparing to Antonio Conte’s unimpressed stance.
Inter Midfielder Stefano Sensi: “We Will Defend The Serie A Title Tooth & Nail” #InterMilan #FCIM https://t.co/MUFAaKMLon
— Inter Milan (@intermilan) July 22, 2021
Juventus: Weston McKennie
Despite the possible arrivals of Manuel Locatelli and Miralem Pjanic, the American could still have an important role to play at Juventus this season.
Whilst most observes predict that Massimiliano Allegri will favor his old pupils, the returning manager has already formed a bond with the Texas native who has thus far been the main star of the club’s pre-season.
After an adaption period to Italian football, the former Schalke man could be a real surprise package in his second Serie A campaign.
Massimiliano Allegri laid his challenge out for #USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie following his goalscoring performance over the weekend in friendly play. Says he wants 10 goals from him in 2021-22. https://t.co/jhYbkvbC6J
— Larry Henry Jr (@lhenry019) July 27, 2021
Milan: Brahim Diaz
After a slow start, the former former Manchester City youngster came to life during the later stages of the season, cementing a starting berth right behind the striker.
Therefore, Milan decided to maintain the attacking midfielder for another two seasons, and this time around, he’s expecting to play a vital role within Stefano Pioli’s plans.
Even if a newcomer arrives at Milanello to replace Hakan Calhanoglu, the youngster will have the edge thanks to his previous campaign with the Rossoneri.
OFFICIAL: Brahim Diaz returns to AC Milan on a 2 year loan until 2023 ?⚫️?? pic.twitter.com/Rr9Bba3WNU
— Italian Football TV (@IFTVofficial) July 19, 2021
Napoli: Elif Elmas
Although the North Macedonian is yet to prove his true worth at Napoli, we must remember that he’s still few months shy of his 22nd birthday.
However, the former Fenerbahce man has often shown flashes of talent during his rare appearances, and his versatility renders him an important member of the squad – especially following Diego Demme’s recent injury.
The arrival of Luciano Spalletti could turn out to be the bright spark that the young man needed to ignite his playing career.
Elif Elmas has been superb in Dimaro. Some great/clever touches, passes and link-up play, particularly with Victor Osimhen. He seems to be brimming with confidence under Spalletti. Hopefully this is the year where he shines bright like a diamond ?? #Elmas #Dimaro
— SSC Nap⚽️li News (@SSCNapoliNews_) July 23, 2021
Roma: Alessandro Florenzi
A longshot perhaps, but one that we just couldn’t resist. The Euro 2020 winner is a former Roma captain who fell from grace during Paulo Fonseca’s tenure, spending the last 18 months on loan at Valencia and PSG respectively.
Even though transfer rumors continue to haunt the Italian, José Mourinho may realize the importance of maintaining a hard-working versatile veteran who knows the club and the city inside-out.
If Florenzi manages to be regain his spot in the Giallorossi’s lineup, this shocking surprise would be the comeback story of the whole Serie A season.
?? Alessandro Florenzi is expected to stay at Roma after returning from his loan spell at PSG ??#ASRoma
[@CanalSupporters] pic.twitter.com/rGJGwR82uo— Transfer Central (@TransferCxntral) July 28, 2021