In the annals of the Premier League, few names resonate as profoundly as Kevin De Bruyne when it comes to playmaking. His uncanny ability to deliver pinpoint assists has seen him top the Premier League’s assist charts four times in the past seven seasons. But as the sands of time shift, change is inevitable.
While De Bruyne’s legacy may one day lead to the Playmaker award being rechristened in his honor, the 2023-24 season might not see him etch his name on the accolade. A nagging long-term injury has temporarily dimmed the starlight of the man who has so consistently been the Premier League’s top assist provider.
This presents an intriguing opportunity. The stage is set for luminaries like the dazzling Mohamed Salah, the crafty James Maddison, and the rapidly rising star, Pedro Neto. And seize the moment, they have! As it stands, Neto and Newcastle’s tenacious Kieran Trippier lead the pack. But not far behind, we see Maddison and the promising Ollie Watkins, both standing tall with five assists each. Mohamed Salah and West Ham’s dynamo, Vladimir Coufal, follow closely, each with four assists.
The Race for Premier League’s Top Assists (2022-23):
- Pedro Neto, Wolves — 7
- Kieran Trippier, Newcastle — 6
- James Maddison, Tottenham — 5
- Ollie Watkins, Aston Villa — 5
- Mohamed Salah, Liverpool — 4
- Vladimir Coufal, West Ham — 4
- Kaoru Mitoma, Brighton — 3
- James Ward-Prowse, West Ham — 3
- Pervis Estupinan, Brighton — 3
- Phil Foden, Manchester City — 3
- Julian Alvarez, Manchester City — 3
- Moussa Diaby, Aston Villa — 3
- Jean-Philippe Mateta, Crystal Palace — 3
- Jacob Murphy, Newcastle — 3
- Bukayo Saka, Arsenal — 3
- Anthony Elanga, Nottingham Forest — 3
- Richarlison, Tottenham — 3
- Darwin Nunez, Liverpool — 3