Most underrated footballers: The footballing season concluded bringing and end to yet another absorbing and intense campaign across Europe.
While some players were expected to deliver and did so, they were other surprising elements who managed to carve out a niche this season through their performances.
There have been such underrated footballers this season who delivered brilliant performances and raise their stocks ahead of the next season which also coincides with the World Cup.
Hence, such players will look to continue their form at the start of next season.
We look at the top 5 underrated footballers who surprised everyone with their performances in 2021-22.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
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After a poor start to the season at Arsenal, Aubameyang moved to Barcelona on a permanent basis in a free transfer during January.
This was just the catalyst and change of scenery needed for the Gabon international as he enjoyed a brilliant 4 months with the Catalan side.
In 17 La Liga appearances, Aubameyang scored 11 goals and provided an assist as he provided the telling blows for Xavi’s men.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang keeps on performing for Barcelona! 👀
He scored twice and assisted another in a dominant 4-0 win at the Bernabeu. ⚽️#Aubameyang #FCBarcelona #ElClasico pic.twitter.com/RftuDYyuId
— DR Sports (@drsportsmedia) March 21, 2022
He scored twice and provided a crucial assist in Barcelona’s 4-0 thumping win over Real Madrid in the El Clasico played in March.
Such was the forward’s impact in the league that his horror run at Arsenal was soon forgotten.
He definitely surprised the Barcelona faithful and other fans across the globe with his quick feet and clinical displays.
Vinicius Junior
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After a rather poor showing last season with Los Blancos, Vinicius Junior was at his best this season.
The Brazilian scored 17 goals and provided 10 assists enroute Real Madrid’s successful title campaign.
He played the perfect support to Karim Benzema and the two combined to create mayhem in the La Liga.
Vinicius Junior still has the UCL final to continue his good form and will not be shy to showcase his best as Real Madrid target yet another trophy.
Heung-Min Son
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Son enjoyed a prolific EPL campaign this season as he ended with the Golden Boot alongside Salah with 23 efforts each.
The South Korean international made a brilliant return to form this season and helped Spurs to a 4th place finish.
Son did the bulk of the scoring for Spurs in the absence of Harry Kane due to the latter’s indifferent form and ensured Spurs ended the campaign on a high.
What. A. Season.
23 goals, no penalties, @Sonny7 is the 2021/22 Premier League Golden Boot winner 👏🔥🏆 pic.twitter.com/zJEDTmUNVy
— CAA Base (@CAABase) May 23, 2022
Heung Min Son has earned plaudits for his commitment and dedication to enjoying a successful season and will be eager to deliver next season as well.
Reece James
The Chelsea player ended the season with 5 goals and 9 assists to end his campaign positively.
This was James’ best season in the Premier League for the Blues and though the Blues did not gain much in terms of titles; his performances weren’t forgotten.
Reece James has been a find for the Blues and was consistently threatening defenders through his runs and ability to work through gaps.
Reece James has nine assists and six goals this season despite missing games due to injury.
Serious baller 👏 pic.twitter.com/chZWrs9tFI
— GOAL (@goal) May 19, 2022
Chelsea identified a future talent in James and aim to utilize him well henceforth.
Memphis Depay
Depay made a move to Barcelona from Lyon ahead of this season and quickly got matters underway.
The Netherlands winger/striker ended his season with 12 goals and 2 assists in 28 matches.
Memphis began his season on a good note assisting and scoring in his first two matches and soon into the scheme of things.
His precious and calm performances gave Barcelona a new dimension under Xavi as they slowly began their rise.
It may not have been the best season for the Catalan side, but there is plenty potential in the tank with the likes of Depay and others striking well.