Fulham face a third consecutive season in the Premier League, but can Marco Silva's side build on their respectable 13th-placed finish in 2023-24? Despite losing star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, they reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals for the first time, but this year's challenge is further complicated by the departure of key midfielder Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich.
However, the Cottagers have made a statement by breaking their transfer record to sign Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal. The homecoming of Ryan Sessegnon has also added further excitement to the upcoming season, suggesting that Fulham are determined to maintain their Premier League status and potentially push for a higher finish.
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Summer of Change
The summer transfer window began with uncertainty, as several key players departed without immediate replacements. Fulham's initial slowness to secure signings echoed Liverpool's approach, causing initial anxiety amongst supporters. However, the mood quickly shifted with Sessegnon's return, followed by the £34 million (approx. $43.7 million) acquisition of Smith Rowe.
Encouraging pre-season performances, particularly during their trip to Portugal, have instilled confidence in the squad, who appear well-prepared for the new campaign.
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A Weakened Squad?
While the new signings offer promise, Fulham's squad is not as strong as it was at the end of last season. The loss of Palhinha is a significant blow, as he was instrumental in the team's success over the past two years. Replacing his defensive solidity and leadership will be a demanding task.
The departure of Tosin Adarabioyo to Chelsea on a free transfer further weakens the defence, leaving a void that requires urgent attention. Experienced figures like Tim Ream and Bobby De Cordova-Reid have also left the club, while Willian's future remains uncertain.
Despite these departures, the arrival of Smith Rowe, Sessegnon, and Jorge Cuenca provides some reassurance, and Fulham possess a relatively deep squad overall. However, they will undoubtedly face a tougher challenge this season compared to last.
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Smith Rowe: The Exciting New Addition
Emile Smith Rowe is the player most fans are eager to see in action. The English international, despite injury setbacks, has proven his talent on numerous occasions, prompting Arsenal's reluctance to let go of their academy graduate. His creative spark in the final third is a unique attribute, and his impressive pre-season performances suggest he is ready to thrive with regular game time. If he can stay fit, this could be a significant signing for Fulham.
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Players with Points to Prove
Several players within the squad have something to prove. Silva has embraced this challenge, making it Fulham's unique selling point.
Adama Traore, whose first season was hampered by injuries, needs to consistently demonstrate the talent he possesses. Issa Diop, who joined for £15 million two seasons ago, has yet to secure a regular starting role. With Adarabioyo's departure, he might get more opportunities to prove himself.
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Potential for Breakout Stars
Jay Stansfield, after an impressive loan spell with Birmingham City, has earned a spot amongst Silva's attacking trio. He impressed at the Championship club, scooping up every individual award, including player of the season, top scorer, and goal of the season. This season represents a crucial opportunity for Stansfield to establish himself as a key player for Fulham.
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Transfer Priorities
Two key positions still require attention before the transfer window closes: right centre-back and, more importantly, defensive midfielder. The loss of Palhinha leaves a huge gap in midfield. While a budding partnership between Sasa Lukic and Harrison Reed showed promise last season, Fulham will need additional reinforcements to effectively cope with the loss of such a dominant defensive force throughout the entire campaign.
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Midfield Targets
Two internationals, Brazil's Andre and Scotland's Scott McTominay, have been strongly linked with moves to Craven Cottage. Andre, despite injury issues, attracted a bid from Fulham this summer, but Fluminense are seeking a higher fee. Fulham have also made two bids for McTominay from Manchester United. Both players would add significant strength to the midfield, offering different profiles and tactical options.
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The Big Game to Watch
Fulham's opening game against Manchester United at Old Trafford is a fixture that fans will be eagerly anticipating. Their recent trips to Old Trafford have been eventful, with a painful FA Cup defeat after three red cards in 2022-23 followed by a historic victory with a stoppage-time winner last season. This clash will be a true test of Fulham's ambitions and a potential upset against their illustrious rivals would be a significant early statement.
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Key Stats to Track
While Palhinha's absence will undoubtedly lead to a decline in tackling numbers, Fulham can still boast the player with the most interceptions: Antonee Robinson. His quick reactions and pace were instrumental in his impressive performance last season, but he may be setting his sights on racking up assists this year.
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Silva's Long-Term Future
Marco Silva's future at Fulham appears secure. His impressive work in restoring the club's top-flight status and his positive impact on the team have earned him admiration from both the fans and the hierarchy. Unless a bigger club comes calling, it is highly unlikely he will leave Craven Cottage anytime soon.
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A Potential Starting XI
The team's starting lineup is still in flux, with Kenny Tete, Harry Wilson, and Harrison Reed competing for places, and further transfer activity expected. However, a potential starting XI could look like this:
Leno; Castagne, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Lukic, Pereira, Smith Rowe; Iwobi, Muniz, Traore.
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Targets for the Season
A successful season for Fulham would be marked by continued Premier League survival, combined with another strong cup run. However, competing for European football appears a more difficult proposition, especially given the growing financial power of clubs like Newcastle United and Aston Villa.
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Predicted Finish
Despite the challenges, Fulham's ability to recruit talented players and Silva's experience suggests they are capable of achieving another successful season. A 11th-placed finish appears a realistic prediction, building on their recent successes and solidifying their status as a competitive Premier League force.