The ex-Premier League players still without a team in 2025: will they return?

As the 2024–2025 Premier League season progresses, several notable english footballers find themselves without a team, facing uncertainty about their professional futures. This raises questions about why they remain unsigned and their potential for a return to top-level football.

Dele Alli: a star in decline

Dele Alli, 28, stands out as the most emblematic case. After shining at Tottenham Hotspur and with the England national team, his career has significantly declined. Following an unproductive loan spell at Besiktas, where he hasn’t played since February 2023, and subsequent training stints with Everton, Alli is still without a contract. Recently, he suffered another injury, further delaying his return to the field.

Everton manager Sean Dyche described Alli as "desperate" due to his ongoing physical challenges. He’s expected to remain sidelined until next season, with speculation suggesting he might need to prove his worth by playing with the under-21 squad for at least six months to secure a new contract. Despite his ambitions to compete in the 2026 World Cup, his path back to professional football looks increasingly challenging.

Danny Rose: experience without direction

Veteran left-back Danny Rose, 34, remains unattached following his departure from Watford in 2023. Despite his extensive experience in the Premier League and with the England national team, injuries and perceived declines in performance have made it difficult for him to attract suitors. Rose has expressed his desire to continue playing, but a lack of concrete offers might lead him to consider retirement or explore opportunities in less competitive leagues.

Wayne Hennessey: experience without a team

Welsh goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey, 38, remains without a team after leaving Nottingham Forest. With an illustrious international career of over 100 appearances for Wales, his future is uncertain due to limited playing time last season. Valued at €175,000, his experience could be invaluable to teams seeking a leader in goal.

James Tomkins: a defender seeking continuity

English center-back James Tomkins, 35, became a free agent after his contract with Crystal Palace ended. Having played just four matches last season, his visibility in the transfer market has diminished. With a current value of €400,000, he could be an appealing option for lower-tier teams or emerging leagues.

Cheikhou Kouyaté: versatility without a destination

Senegalese midfielder Cheikhou Kouyaté, 35, was released by Nottingham Forest after playing 12 matches last season. With a market value of €700,000, his Premier League and Belgian football experience make him an attractive prospect for teams seeking leadership and midfield solidity.

Loris Karius: a goalkeeper seeking redemption

German goalkeeper Loris Karius, 32, became a free agent after a brief stint at Newcastle United, where he played just one match last season. Valued at €800,000, Karius continues to fight the shadow of his errors in the 2018 Champions League final. Nonetheless, he could find a fresh start with teams looking for an experienced shot-stopper.

Cédric Soares: a full-back without direction

Portuguese full-back Cédric Soares, 33, became a free agent after his time at Arsenal FC, where he made just three appearances last season. With a market value of €1.20 million, his Premier League experience and versatility to play on both flanks make him a potential signing for teams seeking defensive depth.

Owen Hesketh: a promising talent without direction

Midfielder Owen Hesketh, 21, is at a critical juncture in his career. Without a team after his contract ended, Hesketh represents a young talent that could appeal to development-focused projects in lower leagues or teams betting on players with growth potential.

Key points about players without a team in 2025

• Wayne Hennessey: Welsh goalkeeper without a team after leaving Nottingham Forest; his experience could be vital for emerging leagues.
• James Tomkins: English center-back with just four matches last season; seeks opportunities in lower leagues.
• Cheikhou Kouyaté: Versatile midfielder, formerly of Nottingham Forest, with potential markets in Belgium and Africa.
• Loris Karius: German goalkeeper seeking to redeem his career after limited playing time at Newcastle.
• Cédric Soares: Portuguese full-back offering experience on both flanks, formerly of Arsenal.
• Serge Aurier: Ivorian defender with open markets in Europe and Asia after his stint at Galatasaray.
• Owen Hesketh: Young midfielder who could be a future investment for development-focused teams.