Five Players Making an Unexpected Impact This Serie A Season

Serie A has seen its fair share of surprises this season. While some names were already expected to shine, others have forced their way into the spotlight through form, timing, and consistency. These players weren’t listed as pre-season stars, but their early-season influence can’t be ignored. From teenage debuts to revitalised careers, here are five players who’ve made a genuine impact so far in 2025–26.

Vasilije Adžić grabbed attention when he scored a last-gasp winner in the Derby d’Italia. He became the youngest foreign player ever to score for Juventus in that fixture, and it wasn’t a fluke. His awareness, energy, and confidence under pressure point to someone ready to take on bigger responsibilities.

To keep progressing, players in his position need to keep matches simple. Movement off the ball, sharp decisions during transitions, and understanding tactical roles will help avoid burnout. Young forwards can learn from how Adžić finds space and makes each appearance count without overplaying his hand.

Regular minutes won’t always be guaranteed at a club like Juventus. But Adžić has already shown that when the chance comes, it’s possible to deliver at the highest level with a clear mind and good preparation.

When Scott McTominay joined Napoli, there were doubts about how quickly he would settle. Those doubts disappeared fast. He scored a bullet header in his league debut and later earned Goal of the Month honours for a well-timed volley against Inter.

His physical presence has helped in midfield duels, but it’s his movement and positioning that make him stand out. He has a habit of arriving in the box at the right time, something Napoli’s system has benefited from. For midfielders hoping to break forward more effectively, McTominay’s approach offers useful lessons.

His communication and ability to read the game have improved visibly. He positions himself to win second balls and stays switched on throughout. It’s a reminder that switching clubs doesn’t have to mean a slow adjustment if preparation and intent are there.

Kenan Yıldız isn’t new to the Serie A stage, but this season has seen a major step forward. He was named Player of the Month in August and has grown into a dependable attacking option for Juventus. His movement between the lines, link-up play, and confidence in tight spaces have earned him more starts, and deservedly so.

Many young players with talent drift through matches, waiting for the ball to come. Yıldız, by contrast, demands it. His awareness of where to position himself and how to support attacking moves makes him more than just a creative presence. He contributes to the overall shape of play.

To take the next step, Yıldız will benefit from adding more defensive tracking and quicker decisions under pressure. These improvements could help him stay relevant when games become tighter and opponents start marking him more closely.

Kristjan Asllani’s loan move from Inter to Torino raised eyebrows, but it’s proving a smart decision. He’s played with control and composure, bringing balance to Torino’s midfield. His ability to switch play, dictate tempo, and manage risk has given the team a reliable presence in the centre of the pitch.

For younger players looking to break into first teams, Asllani’s example shows what can happen with regular minutes and a clear role. He rarely forces play. Instead, he focuses on keeping possession, drawing defenders out of position, and allowing the game to open up for others.

To build on this momentum, Asllani should continue working on physical duels and assertiveness. Midfielders who can protect the ball and organise their teammates often go underappreciated, but they’re essential to long-term consistency.

Nico Paz has emerged as one of the season’s early surprises. Como, back in the top flight, have used him as a central attacking option, and it’s worked. He was named Rising Star of the Month for August and has brought flair and calmness to a side many thought would struggle.

He’s not just a technical player. Paz plays with intent, often picking out runners or holding possession when the tempo needs control. He’s shown a mature sense of timing that allows Como to breathe during intense periods. For clubs operating on tighter budgets, players like him can be the difference between survival and ambition.

Building on this momentum will depend on staying fit and managing game rhythm. As matches become more demanding, knowing when to press, hold or pass can define a season, especially in clubs where squad depth is limited.

These players share several traits: good timing, sharp decision-making, and a willingness to adapt. None was considered likely to dominate headlines before the campaign began. But each one has now carved out a spot in his squad and is contributing in matches that matter.

Clubs that identify and support players like this often outperform expectations. Talent alone isn’t enough. Opportunities arise when injuries or rotations occur. Those who are ready, physically and mentally, tend to rise fast.

Form in Serie A can shift quickly. Teams go through tactical changes, and players can fall out of favour. That’s why consistency is key. Following these unexpected standouts gives fans a deeper understanding of what’s really moving the table week by week.

Following stories beyond the headlines is part of what makes watching football so rewarding. From tactical growth to personal breakthroughs, there’s a lot to take in if you’re looking past just the final scores.

Off the pitch, fans are finding new ways to stay engaged. Platforms like Instant Casino have added new ways to follow the action. While focused on entertainment, services like this also offer live match features, allowing fans to experience the game from different angles without being tied to one screen or location.

Whether following live stats, watching highlight reels or reviewing tactical breakdowns, there are plenty of ways to stay involved between matchdays.

What happens next for Adžić, McTominay, Yıldız, Asllani and Paz could shape the rest of the season. They’ve gone from squad players or unknowns to starters and game-changers. Their development reflects the strength of teams that trust ability over hype.

Serie A has always been a league where systems and individual talent come together. Tracking players who’ve earned their roles through discipline and effort makes following the league even more rewarding.

Keep a close eye on who takes the next step, because form and opportunity often shift quicker than expected.