The Premier League’s Forgotten Stars: Assembling the Best Possible Back-Up XI
The recent sight of Pep Guardiola fielding a heavily rotated, and ultimately defeated, Manchester City side against Bayer Leverkusen sparked a compelling question: what is the strongest possible Premier League team comprised entirely of players who aren’t first-choice starters? The answer, surprisingly, features just one City player, highlighting the depth – and often frustratingly underutilized talent – scattered across England’s top flight. This isn’t about rotation options; it’s about those consistently looking up the pecking order, waiting for a sustained opportunity.
The Strength in Depth Across the League
Several clubs boast impressive reserves, but Arsenal’s depth is particularly noteworthy. As one analyst noted, “They’ve built a squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts, and that extends far beyond the starting eleven.” This selection prioritizes players who, all things being equal, are currently behind established stars, but possess the quality to make a significant impact.
A Lineup of Premier League Potential
Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale
A contentious choice, perhaps, but Aaron Ramsdale’s situation at Newcastle presents a compelling case. While facing competition from keepers at Liverpool and Manchester City, Ramsdale’s career trajectory – from relegation battles to a Champions League-adjacent Arsenal – suggests a talent that transcends his current circumstances. “He might not be the Champions League-adjacent Premier League runner-up he became at Arsenal,” one observer commented, “yet he clearly isn’t the sort of player who should have been relegated.” Newcastle offers a platform for him to rediscover that form.
Right-Back: Benjamin White
Despite being hailed as “probably our best player” in pre-season by Mikel Arteta, Benjamin White has found himself sidelined at Arsenal following the arrival of Jurrien Timber. While Timber’s quality is undeniable, White remains a highly trusted player, having featured more than most under Arteta. With Timber potentially facing burnout, White’s opportunity could arrive sooner rather than later.
Centre-Back: Cristhian Mosquera
Arsenal’s defensive depth is a key strength, and Cristhian Mosquera embodies that. Thrown into a game at Anfield at just 21 years old, he demonstrated a composure beyond his years. The Gunners have come a long way from relying on players like Rob Holding, and Mosquera represents a significant upgrade in quality.
Centre-Back: Piero Hincapie
The inclusion of Piero Hincapie raises a question: where will the Andrea Berta statue even go? This is a playful nod to the transfer dealings of the sporting director, but Hincapie’s quality is no joke.
Left-Back: Lewis Hall
Lewis Hall’s potential is undeniable, but injuries have hampered his progress at Newcastle. When fit, he’s likely to reclaim a starting role, potentially even becoming a reliable England left-back option. However, Eddie Howe’s preference for Dan Burn could keep Hall on the periphery for now.
Central Midfield: Kobbie Mainoo
The handling of Kobbie Mainoo at Manchester United has been perplexing. Ostracizing him seemingly tanked his transfer value, a situation the club will likely regret. Despite limited playing time – just 260 minutes all season, starting only against Grimsby in the League Cup – the narrative around Mainoo has shifted. A starter for England in the Euro 2024 final, according to some projections, won’t even be in the conversation for the 2026 World Cup squad, “largely because he is apparently not as good as Manuel Ugarte.”
Central Midfield: Andrey Santos
A product of the chaotic ownership era at Chelsea, Andrey Santos has emerged as a legitimately exciting midfield prospect. Loan spells at Strasbourg and Nottingham Forest have honed his skills, and he’s now integrated into Enzo Maresca’s squad. While not ahead of Moises Caicedo or Enzo Fernandez, Santos is trusted enough to feature in Premier League games and even make appearances against Barcelona.
Right-Wing: Federico Chiesa
Despite being one of Liverpool’s most productive players in terms of goals and assists, Federico Chiesa remains on the fringes of the starting lineup. He’s outperformed players like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, yet finds himself fifth for most Premier League minutes of any player yet to start a game in the competition. A frustrating situation for a 28-year-old Italy international in a World Cup year.
Attacking Midfield: Omar Marmoush
Omar Marmoush’s initial impact at Manchester City hinted at a player capable of sharing Erling Haaland’s goalscoring burden. However, injury and limited playing time have stifled his momentum. Pep Guardiola has praised his “patience,” but the Egyptian’s early promise has faded.
Left-Wing: Mathys Tel
Mathys Tel’s unhappiness at Spurs is understandable. Despite being a prolific goalscorer for the club – only Richarlison and Micky van de Ven have scored more Premier League goals – he remains a distinctly unfancied option in a struggling attack.
Centre-Forward: Liam Delap
Liam Delap, the only Chelsea player to eschew long sleeves against Barcelona, scored a crucial goal. While his Premier League record is modest – more red cards and world champion medals than goals – a loan spell away from Chelsea, perhaps even a move to a team like Ipswich, could provide him with the consistent playing time he needs to flourish.
