The Rise of Football’s Most Improved Players from 2023/2024 season to the 2024/2025 season
A Deep Dive into the 2024/25 Season Rankings
As the 2024/25 football season unfolds, the world of soccer has been treated to remarkable individual transformations, with players across the top 10 leagues showcasing dramatic improvements in their goal contributions. Transfermarkt’s latest analysis highlights the biggest differences in goal and assist (G+A) totals from the 2023/24 to the 2024/25 seasons, unveiling a list of 10 players who have elevated their games to new heights. This article ranks these standout performers from 10th to 1st, exploring their journeys, the factors driving their success, and the implications for their clubs and the sport as a whole.
10. Kuhn: +14 (16 G+A in 2023/24 to 30 G+A in 2024/25)
At the base of this impressive list is Kuhn, a versatile forward plying his trade with Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. Last season, he contributed 16 goal involvements, a respectable tally for a player finding his footing. This season, however, Kuhn has surged to 30 G+A, a +14 increase that underscores his rapid development. His improvement can be attributed to a tactical system that maximizes his pace and finishing ability, coupled with increased confidence under his manager’s guidance. Kuhn’s emergence as a key attacking threat has bolstered Celtic’s dominance domestically and raised hopes for their European campaigns. His story is a testament to how the right environment can unlock a player’s potential.
9. Marmoush: +14 (23 G+A in 2023/24 to 37 G+A in 2024/25)
Tied with Kuhn at +14 but edging higher due to his consistent impact is Omar Marmoush of Eintracht Frankfurt. Last season, the Egyptian forward recorded 23 goal contributions, a solid foundation as he adapted to the Bundesliga’s demands. In 2024/25, Marmoush has exploded to 37 G+A, reflecting a significant leap in his finishing and playmaking skills. His physicality, combined with improved decision-making, has made him a nightmare for defenders. Marmoush’s partnership with Frankfurt’s midfield has flourished, and his rise positions him as a potential transfer target for bigger clubs, signaling a bright future ahead.
8. Beljo: +15 (2 G+A in 2023/24 to 17 G+A in 2024/25)
A remarkable turnaround story comes in the form of Beljo, who represents a mid-tier club with ambition. Last season, he struggled to make an impact, managing just 2 goal contributions, which cast doubt on his ability to thrive at this level. This season, however, Beljo has defied expectations with 17 G+A, a +15 improvement. This surge likely stems from a redefined role, better support from teammates, or a personal breakthrough in confidence. Beljo’s resurgence is a narrative of resilience and growth, and his newfound form could attract attention from clubs looking for undervalued talent.
7. Cerny: +15 (6 G+A in 2023/24 to 21 G+A in 2024/25)
Cerny, another player from a competitive league, matches Beljo’s +15 increase, climbing from 6 goal contributions last season to 21 this year. His ascent reflects a combination of tactical adjustments, increased playing time, and a coaching focus on his strengths as a winger or attacking midfielder. Cerny’s ability to exploit spaces and contribute both goals and assists has transformed him into a vital asset for his team. His improvement highlights the potential for players to break out when provided with the right opportunities, and his club will be eager to capitalize on this momentum.
6. Piatek: +15 (18 G+A in 2023/24 to 33 G+A in 2024/25)
Krzysztof Piatek, once heralded as a rising star during his time at AC Milan, has rediscovered his scoring prowess, adding +15 goal contributions this season. After managing 18 last year, the Polish striker has now reached 33 G+A, a testament to his adaptability across leagues. Playing for a revitalized side, Piatek’s physical presence and clinical finishing have been revitalized, making him a focal point of his team’s attack. At 29, this resurgence reaffirms his pedigree, and if he maintains this form, he could still make a significant impact at the highest level.
5. Ekitike: +17 (6 G+A in 2023/24 to 23 G+A in 2024/25)
Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt emerges as a breakout star with a +17 improvement. Last season, the young French striker contributed just 6 goal involvements, but in 2024/25, he has soared to 23. This leap is fueled by regular playing time and a system that complements his direct, pace-driven style. Ekitike’s development into a reliable finisher has made him a cornerstone of Frankfurt’s attack, and his progress suggests he could soon attract interest from Europe’s elite clubs, marking him as one to watch.
4. Retegui: +17 (12 G+A in 2023/24 to 29 G+A in 2024/25)
Matias Retegui, the Argentine forward now thriving in Italy, also boasts a +17 increase. With 12 goal contributions last season, Retegui has jumped to 29 this year, showcasing his evolution into a potent striker. His physicality and aerial ability, honed in Serie A, have been key, alongside improved movement off the ball. Retegui’s rise has been a boon for his club, and his performances could see him earn a call-up to the Argentine national team, further elevating his profile on the global stage.
3. Raphinha: +17 (23 G+A in 2023/24 to 40 G+A in 2024/25)
Raphinha, the Brazilian winger at Barcelona, ties with Retegui and Ekitike at +17 but ranks higher due to his higher total of 40 G+A. Last season, he contributed 23 goal involvements, a solid return in a competitive La Liga. This season, he has reached 40, driven by his flair, work rate, and improved decision-making under Barcelona’s tactical setup. Raphinha’s versatility and consistency have made him a linchpin for the Catalans, and his improvement could solidify his status as one of the world’s top wingers.
2. Maeda: +18 (14 G+A in 2023/24 to 32 G+A in 2024/25)
Daizen Maeda of Celtic climbs to second place with a +18 increase, rising from 14 G+A last season to 32 this year. The Japanese winger’s speed and relentless pressing have been amplified by Celtic’s high-octane style, turning him into a scoring machine. Maeda’s improvement reflects his adaptation to European football and his growing understanding of the game. His contributions have been crucial to Celtic’s success, and his form could attract interest from bigger leagues, marking him as a rising star.
1. Kean: +21 (0 G+A in 2023/24 to 21 G+A in 2024/25)
Topping the list is Moise Kean, who has achieved an astonishing +21 increase. After a dismal 2023/24 season with 0 goal contributions—likely due to limited minutes or injury—Kean has bounced back spectacularly to 21 G+A in 2024/25. Playing for a rejuvenated side, his return to form highlights a remarkable turnaround, driven by renewed confidence and a supportive system. Kean’s resurgence is a story of redemption, and at a young age, he has the potential to reclaim his place among Europe’s elite strikers.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 season has showcased an incredible array of player improvements, with Kean’s +21 leap leading the charge. From Kuhn’s steady rise to Kean’s dramatic revival, these players exemplify the unpredictability and excitement of football. Their growth not only boosts their clubs’ prospects but also enriches the global game, offering fans new heroes to cheer for. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see if these players can sustain their form and cement their legacies.
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