The Top 10 Forgotten Ballers Who Surprisingly Feature in the 2025-26 Europa League takes a closer look at some of football’s most surprising stories this season. These are players who once shined brightly on the big stage but gradually faded from mainstream attention due to transfers, injuries, or dips in form. Yet, in the 2025-26 Europa League, they have returned to show that talent and experience never truly disappear.
From former stars of top European leagues to players who once lit up international tournaments, this list celebrates their resilience and determination. Each footballer brings a unique story—some are making quiet comebacks, while others are anchoring their teams with leadership and technical skill. Fans may be shocked to see familiar names competing against emerging talents, but it’s a reminder that the game is full of surprises.
The article highlights how these players continue to influence matches, offering key goals, creative playmaking, or solid defensive performances. For football enthusiasts, it’s a nostalgic journey that combines history, skill, and the unexpected drama of the Europa League. Discover which forgotten ballers are ready to make their mark again and why 2025-26 could be their season to shine once more.
10. Marcos Alonso – Celta Vigo
Once a favourite under Antonio Conte at Chelsea, Marcos Alonso has seen his career slide into relative obscurity. After serving a functional role at Barcelona and winning the La Liga title under Xavi in his debut season, Alonso barely featured in his second year in Catalonia. His career appeared to be fading from the spotlight, with many questioning whether he could recapture past glories.
Last summer, Alonso joined Celta Vigo, a club celebrating its centenary year. In a remarkable resurgence, he helped the Galician side punch above their weight, finishing seventh in La Liga. His experience, tactical intelligence, and ability to read the game proved invaluable in stabilizing the team, especially in key defensive moments. Alonso’s crossing ability and knack for scoring from outside the box have also made him a constant threat during set-pieces.
In the Europa League, Alonso will provide leadership to a relatively young squad. Fans will watch closely to see if the former Chelsea left-back can replicate the form that once made him one of Serie A and Premier League’s most respected full-backs. His journey reflects both resilience and adaptability, proving that even forgotten stars can shine again on Europe’s stage.
9. Naby Keita – Ferencvaros
Naby Keita’s journey from a promising Liverpool signing to a forgotten Europa League contender has been turbulent. The Guinea midfielder was expected to be a central figure in Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool project but was hampered by constant injuries. Despite making over a hundred appearances in five years, he never solidified himself as indispensable.
After limited stints elsewhere, including just five appearances for Werder Bremen, Keita was sent on loan to Ferencvaros in Hungary, managed by Robbie Keane. While some may view this as a step down, it offers Keita an opportunity to regain form and showcase his talent on the European stage. His ability to drive the midfield, break lines, and deliver precise passes makes him a potential game-changer in the Europa League.
Keita’s physicality and flair, when combined with his experience in top European competitions, can elevate Ferencvaros’ performance. Fans of Klopp-era Liverpool might be surprised to see him playing in Hungary, but the Europa League offers a platform for redemption. If Keita can stay fit, he may prove that his talent was never truly lost, reminding football enthusiasts of the skill that once made him a coveted midfielder in Europe.
8. Olivier Giroud – Lille
Olivier Giroud’s career has taken unexpected turns in recent years. After a brief and underwhelming spell in MLS with LAFC, where he scored just five goals in 38 appearances, the veteran striker quietly returned to Europe. Joining Lille, Giroud has made a promising start, netting two goals in his first four appearances.
Known for his aerial dominance, physicality, and intelligent movement, Giroud continues to offer something different compared to modern forwards. His experience in high-pressure games, including Champions League and domestic finals, provides Lille with a seasoned leader in attack. Beyond goals, he contributes to team play, holding up the ball and linking midfield to attack effectively.
In the Europa League, Giroud’s presence is crucial. His ability to score from headers, anticipate crosses, and capitalize on defensive lapses makes him a constant threat. While many assumed his European career had peaked, this resurgence proves that experience and tactical intelligence can keep even aging stars relevant on the continental stage. Giroud reminds fans that perseverance and adaptability can extend careers in unexpected but rewarding ways.
7. Xherdan Shaqiri – Basel
After two forgettable years in MLS with Chicago Fire, Xherdan Shaqiri returned to his boyhood club, FC Basel. The Swiss winger immediately rediscovered his form, finishing top scorer in the Swiss Super League and guiding Basel to the league title. Shaqiri recorded 18 goals and 21 assists in 34 appearances, signaling a remarkable renaissance.
Shaqiri’s ability to change games with dribbling, vision, and set-piece prowess makes him a key asset for Basel in the Europa League. His experience at top European clubs like Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Inter Milan allows him to operate under pressure and mentor younger teammates. Opponents must be wary of his creativity and ability to exploit tight spaces, as he can produce moments of brilliance at any time.
The “Shaqirennaisance,” as fans now call it, highlights how a player’s career can be revitalized when returning to familiar surroundings. Shaqiri combines nostalgia, technical excellence, and experience, proving that even once-forgotten players can have a profound impact on European competitions. His performances in the Europa League will be closely watched, as he seeks to cement his legacy with Basel on a continental stage.
6. Pontus Jansson – Malmo
Pontus Jansson has always been a cult hero, first at Leeds United and later at Brentford. The Swedish centre-back returned to his hometown club, Malmo, to finish the twilight years of his career in familiar surroundings. Jansson’s passion for the club and local identity has been evident, and his leadership has become a cornerstone of Malmo’s defensive stability.
Since returning, he has helped the club secure two Allsvenskan titles, adding to the three he won during his youth career. His aerial prowess, tactical awareness, and ability to marshal the backline make him a formidable presence. Jansson’s experience in English football has sharpened his defensive skills, which are invaluable in European competitions.
In the 2025-26 Europa League, Jansson will combine leadership with physicality, helping Malmo navigate challenging fixtures. His presence is a reminder that dedication, consistency, and love for the game can allow players to remain influential, even after leaving top leagues. Fans and teammates alike benefit from his guidance, experience, and unyielding work ethic.
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5. Tanguy Ndombele – Nice
Tanguy Ndombele’s career has been a mix of flashes of brilliance and underwhelming spells. Once Tottenham’s record signing, he often struggled to adapt fully to North London’s demands. However, loan spells at Napoli and Galatasaray allowed him to contribute to title-winning campaigns, showcasing glimpses of his talent.
In 2025, Ndombele joined Nice under the ownership of Jim Ratcliffe. While he made just 13 starts last season, he scored once and provided two assists, contributing to the team’s Europa League qualification. Ndombele’s blend of dribbling, vision, and passing ability makes him a key creative asset in midfield.
For Nice, Ndombele’s presence in the Europa League will be pivotal. He can dictate tempo, unlock defenses, and transition quickly from defense to attack. While his career has been unpredictable, this stage provides an opportunity to remind fans of his capabilities. If he maintains focus and consistency, Ndombele can be one of the standout midfielders in the competition.
4. Renato Sanches – Panathinaikos
Once a wonderkid at Lille and Benfica, Renato Sanches’ career has taken an unusual trajectory. Still contracted to PSG until 2027, Sanches has spent the past few seasons on loan to clubs like Roma, Benfica, and now Panathinaikos. Despite inconsistent performances, he remains a talented midfielder with immense potential.
At Panathinaikos, Sanches offers energy, creativity, and ball progression. His dribbling, vision, and ability to drive forward make him an exciting player to watch in the Europa League. Though he hasn’t yet fully realized the promise of his early career, European competition provides a platform for resurgence.
Sanches’ presence also adds depth and leadership to Panathinaikos’ squad. His experience in top leagues allows him to mentor younger teammates while contributing on the field. The 2025-26 Europa League represents an opportunity for the Portuguese international to showcase the talent that once made him a rising star in Europe.
3. Dejan Lovren – PAOK
Dejan Lovren’s career has been a journey of ups and downs. After leaving Liverpool, he won three Russian Premier League titles with Zenit Saint Petersburg, followed by an 18-month spell in Ligue 1 with Lyon. Recently, he signed for PAOK on a free transfer, bringing leadership and experience to the Greek side.
Lovren’s defensive awareness, aerial ability, and positional intelligence make him a key figure in PAOK’s backline. His experience in top European leagues and Champions League competitions adds an invaluable perspective, particularly in high-pressure Europa League matches.
At PAOK, Lovren is tasked with guiding younger defenders while maintaining defensive solidity. His presence instills confidence in the squad, and his professionalism sets a standard for teammates. In the 2025-26 Europa League, Lovren’s mixture of experience, reliability, and tactical awareness will be essential for PAOK’s ambitions.
2. Sofyan Amrabat – Real Betis
Sofyan Amrabat, the Morocco international, moved to Real Betis after a brief Champions League qualifier with Fenerbahce. Known for his industrious style, defensive capabilities, and ball-winning skills, Amrabat adds energy and balance to Betis’ midfield.
He joins a squad featuring other experienced players like Hector Bellerin, Giovani Lo Celso, and Pablo Fornals. Amrabat’s ability to break lines, recover possession, and dictate tempo is crucial in European competition. He brings both defensive discipline and forward thrust, often acting as the engine of the team.
In the 2025-26 Europa League, Amrabat’s versatility will be vital. He can support attack and defense simultaneously, allowing Real Betis to remain competitive against technically skilled opponents. His performances will likely determine the team’s progression and influence matches at critical moments.
1. Sebastian Haller – Utrecht
Sebastian Haller’s career has been a rollercoaster. From early promise at FC Utrecht to stints in the Bundesliga, Premier League, and a triumphant Eredivisie spell with Ajax, his journey has been marked by highs and setbacks. After overcoming testicular cancer, Haller returned to scoring form, helping Ivory Coast win AFCON in 2023.
Haller’s recent spell at Leganes was disappointing, but his permanent return to Utrecht has reignited his career. He played a crucial role in helping Utrecht finish fourth in the Eredivisie, earning a Europa League spot. His physicality, clinical finishing, and aerial dominance make him a constant threat in attack.
In the 2025-26 Europa League, Haller will lead Utrecht’s forward line. His experience, resilience, and poise under pressure will be critical for success. Fans can expect Haller to combine leadership, technical skill, and predatory instincts, making him a player to watch.
FAQ’s:
Why are these players considered “forgotten” in European football?
These players were once stars at top clubs or leagues but lost prominence due to injuries, transfers, inconsistent form, or moves to less high-profile teams.
Can these forgotten ballers still impact the Europa League?
Absolutely. Despite fading from mainstream attention, their experience, skill, and tactical awareness make them capable of influencing matches and guiding their teams deep into the competition.
Which clubs benefit most from signing these experienced players?
Clubs like Celta Vigo, Ferencvaros, Real Betis, and Utrecht gain leadership, technical expertise, and reliability from these seasoned players, boosting their Europa League ambitions.
