Seria A: Five New Faces to Watch as The 2025/26 Season Kicks Off on August 22
The 2025/26 Serie A season is set to begin on Saturday, with Napoli looking to defend their title against promoted Sassuolo. As teams gear up to challenge the champions, several exciting newcomers are making headlines. Here’s a look at five players to keep an eye on this season.
Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli)
The standout transfer of the summer, Kevin De Bruyne, joins Napoli from Manchester City, reuniting with Belgium teammate Romelu Lukaku and former Premier League adversary Scott McTominay. The 34-year-old midfielder signed a two-year deal with an option for a third season, signaling Napoli’s commitment to bolstering their squad for both Serie A and Champions League challenges. However, De Bruyne’s recent history of hamstring injuries raises questions about his fitness and availability.
Luka Modric (AC Milan)
At nearly 40, Luka Modric arrives at AC Milan with a storied career behind him, having won numerous trophies during his time at Real Madrid. His presence at the club, which struggled to find form last season, brings experience and composure to the midfield. Fans celebrated his every touch during Milan’s recent 2-0 victory in the Italian Cup, highlighting the excitement surrounding his signing and the hope that he can guide the team back to its former glory.
Jonathan David (Juventus)
Juventus has added Canadian striker Jonathan David as a free agent, aiming to inject goals into a team that has often relied too heavily on Dusan Vlahovic. The 25-year-old forward previously shone at Lille, scoring 109 goals in 232 matches and making a name for himself on the European stage. His arrival comes at a crucial time for Juve, who finished fourth last season and seek to challenge for the title once more.
Alvaro Morata (Como)
Alvaro Morata returns to Italy with ambitious club Como after his loan at Galatasaray did not turn into a permanent deal. The 32-year-old striker joins a growing Spanish contingent at Como, which is backed by tobacco giant Djarum. After finishing 10th last season in their first Serie A campaign in 21 years, Como aims to climb the league ladder with Morata’s experience leading the attack.
Jesus Rodriguez (Como)
Another exciting addition at Como is 19-year-old winger Jesus Rodriguez, who transferred from Real Betis for over 20 million euros. Rodriguez has already made an impact, assisting two goals in Como’s recent Italian Cup victory. His potential to shine alongside established players like Morata makes him a player to watch as he competes for a starting spot.
Other Notable Signings
Keep an eye on Evan Ferguson, who is on loan at Roma after struggling for playing time at Brighton, and Ciro Immobile and Federico Bernardeschi, who return to Italy with Bologna. Veteran Edin Dzeko will team up with Moise Kean at Fiorentina, while Ange-Yoan Bonny adds depth to Inter Milan’s attacking options after signing from Parma.
