The start of a new season brings fresh opportunities, but it also intensifies competition within every squad.
New signings, returning players, and emerging academy talents mean established names can no longer take their places for granted.
For some players, pre-season will determine whether they become regular starters or spend another campaign on the bench.
Here are 5 football stars facing a battle to secure a place in their club’s starting XI ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest)
Awoniyi endured another injury-interrupted campaign and now faces competition from other attacking options.
A fully fit pre-season could determine whether he reclaims the No. 9 shirt.
Awoniyi is under pressure as a result of his injuries, fitness and competition in attack.
Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen)
Victor Boniface heads into the 2026/27 season under pressure to reclaim a regular starting role after an inconsistent campaign disrupted by injuries and increased competition in Bayer Leverkusen’s attack.
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The Nigerian striker has repeatedly been linked with a move away from the Bundesliga champions, but if he remains at the club, he will need a strong pre-season to convince the coaching staff that he deserves to lead the line.
Endrick – Real Madrid
Endrick remains one of football’s brightest young forwards, but breaking into Real Madrid’s attack is no easy task.
With Kylian Mbappé, VinÃcius Júnior and Jude Bellingham among Madrid’s attacking stars, the Brazilian teenager must impress whenever opportunities arise. His development will depend on making every minute count.
Arda Güler – Real Madrid
Few players possess Güler’s technical quality, yet regular starts remain difficult to secure.
The Turkish international has shown flashes of brilliance, but fierce competition in midfield and attack means consistency during pre-season could determine his role this year.
Gavi – Barcelona
Following injury setbacks and increased competition in midfield, Gavi faces another important campaign.
Barcelona’s midfield is packed with talent, meaning he must rediscover his best form to become an automatic starter once again.
Rico Lewis – Manchester City
Lewis has developed into one of England’s most promising young defenders. However, Manchester City’s tactical flexibility means he faces competition across several positions. His versatility may help him, but securing a guaranteed starting place remains a challenge.
Gerard MartÃn – Barcelona
Gerard MartÃn impressed during the 2025/26 season and has reportedly returned early from his summer break to prepare for pre-season.
With Barcelona weighing defensive options, he is determined to retain his place in the starting XI through hard work and strong performances.
Mason Mount (Manchester United)
Mount’s time at Old Trafford has been disrupted by injuries and inconsistent availability. Even when fit, competition from Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo and other midfield options means he must earn his place all over again.
He is under pressure because of his fitness concerns, injuries, and fierce midfield competition.
Alejandro Garnacho (Chelsea)
Garnacho possesses enormous potential but competition across the front three means he cannot rely solely on reputation.
The latest report shows that the winger missed the pre-season training as he pushes for a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge. He’s under pressure as a result of tactical competition and consistency.
Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan)
The Super Eagles winger has produced flashes of brilliance but has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter in Milan.
Competition on both wings means every appearance matters, especially under a coaching staff expected to demand greater tactical discipline.
