This season, the Championship has been bursting with talent, but a few players have truly set themselves apart. Here are five players who are not just shining in the second tier but are ready to make their mark in the Premier League.
#5: Zan Vipotnik – Swansea City
Zan Vipotnik is currently the EFL’s top scorer, with 20 goals from an expected goals (xG) total of 11.2. On the surface, that level of overperformance raises questions. It can often indicate a hot streak rather than sustainable output.
However, Vipotnik is operating in a side that does not create a high volume of chances, which makes his output even more impressive. While his finishing may regress slightly over time, his underlying traits suggest he could still thrive at a higher level.
He has scored those 20 goals from just 82 shots, with only 32 on target, highlighting an elite level of efficiency. His movement inside the box is intelligent, he is comfortable finishing with both feet, and he offers a strong physical presence.
Out of possession, he is equally effective. He ranks in the top 17% of Championship strikers for possessions won in the final third and has made 50 defensive contributions this season.
Even if his current finishing rate drops, his profile suggests he could succeed in a lower-table Premier League side, particularly one that creates higher-quality chances.
Embed from Getty Images#4: Milan van Ewijk – Coventry City
Coventry City’s Milan van Ewijk epitomises the modern full-back. Known for his pace and attacking output, he has registered eight assists and created 39 chances this season.
His attacking positioning is particularly notable, ranking in the top eight percent of Championship full-backs for touches in the opposition box (58).
What makes van Ewijk stand out, though, is his balance. Unlike many attack-minded full-backs, he remains defensively reliable. He has made 249 defensive contributions, including 90 tackles, 49 interceptions, and 101 clearances.
His main weakness comes in one-on-one situations, where he can be beaten. However, his recovery pace often compensates, reflected in his 137 recoveries this season.
Tactically, he offers flexibility as he is capable of tucking into a back three or stepping into midfield, which would suit a range of Premier League systems.
Embed from Getty Images#3: Femi Azeez – Millwall
Millwall’s Femi Azeez has developed into one of the Championship’s most exciting wide players.
Operating primarily from the left, he thrives when cutting inside, combining close control with strong dribbling ability and consistent delivery. He has recorded eight goals and seven assists this season, alongside 56 chances created.
His crossing output stands out in particular, with 65 successful crosses—placing him in the top two percent of Championship wingers.
Azeez also contributes defensively. He has registered 91 defensive contributions, including 39 tackles and 93 recoveries, while winning possession in the final third 26 times.
After a promising but less productive campaign last season (four goals and five assists), he has taken a clear step forward. With his trajectory, a move to the Premier League appears the natural next step.
Embed from Getty Images#2: Carl Rushworth – Coventry City
Carl Rushworth has been one of the standout goalkeepers in the Championship during his loan spell at Coventry. He leads the division for clean sheets (15) and ranks first for goals prevented (7.9), with a save percentage of 73.6%. His shot-stopping ability alone marks him out as a top prospect.
Having started his career as a midfielder in Brighton’s academy, Rushworth is highly composed on the ball and capable of operating in possession-based systems. That profile makes him a natural fit for Brighton’s style.
With Bart Verbruggen likely to attract interest this summer, Brighton may already have a ready-made replacement. If not, interest is growing elsewhere with multiple Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United, monitoring him according to BBC Sport.
Whether at Brighton or elsewhere, Rushworth looks set to be a Premier League goalkeeper next season.
Embed from Getty Images#1: Hayden Hackney – Middlesbrough
Hayden Hackney has been one of the most complete midfielders in the Championship this season. Technically excellent and highly intelligent, he dictates play while remaining effective in both phases.
Across 40 appearances in all competitions, he has registered six goals and seven assists—an outstanding return for a midfielder. The Middlesbrough academy graduate has also created 83 chances, the highest in the Championship.
His all-round numbers are equally impressive. Among Championship midfielders, he ranks first for successful dribbles, touches in the penalty area, shots, and possessions won in the final third.
Hackney’s ability to progress the ball, operate under pressure, and influence games in multiple ways makes him difficult to profile a weakness in.
If Middlesbrough fail to secure promotion, he is likely to have no shortage of Premier League suitors.
Embed from Getty ImagesWritten by Isabelle Martin
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