Fulham is currently enjoying the 6th position in the 2022/23 English Premier League also competing in the FA Cup and the EFL Cup. Their recent success is definitely credited to their smart signings in the past years.
One of the most iconic clubs in London, Fulham has had its share of highs and lows in the Premier League era. The Cottagers peaked when they reached the 2010 Europa League final.
After 13 consecutive seasons in the Premier League, Fulham was relegated in 2014 and since then, changed divisions from time to time before being promoted back to the top tier after winning the 2021-22 Championship title. With 38 points from 24 matches played. They have won 11 matches, drawn 5, and lost 8. They have scored 35 goals and conceded 30 goals.
Fulham have completed 20 transfers this season and many of them have proved pivotal in their recent success. They have beaten Premier League giants like Chelsea, and Leicester and even held Liverpool at a draw.
Right now, according to One-Versus-One, their best player is their goalkeeper Bernd Leno. He is rated as the best goalkeeper in the Premier League followed by Illan Stephane Meslier (of Leeds United) and Allison Becker (of Liverpool).
He joined the Cottagers from the Gunners in 2022 at a price of £3.6 million. Bernd Leno and Issa Diop have contributed to Fulham’s defensive efforts earning them clean sheets. Issa Diop joined Fulham from the Hammers for £17.8 million.
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Welsh winger Harry Wilson was highly rated ever since the time he joined Liverpool’s youth academy in 2005 as an eight-year-old. He was moved on loan to Hull City followed by similar moves to Derby County, Bournemouth, Cardiff City, and Fulham. Fulham decided to make his move permanent in the summer of 2022, signing the talented winger for £12.60 million.
Further forward, Andreas Pereira has excelled as a No.10. According to whoscored.com, only Kevin De Bruyne, Bruno Fernandes, Kieran Trippier, and James Maddison have averaged more key passes per game than the former Manchester United man. Fulham signed him from Manchester United for £9.5 million.
After his disastrous spell at Arsenal was followed by a stint back home in Brazil, Willian looked like a curious signing. But the 34-year-old, who is likely to start against his former club Chelsea, has made himself a fixture in Silva’s side. At the moment, Willian has 3 goals and 3 assists in the Premier League. He was a free transfer from Corinthians.
João Palhinha was the pick of the bunch. The Portugal international has been a phenomenal success in the center of the park. Palhinha has been monstrous off the ball and is key in keeping the Cottagers’ midfield tight. He was bought from Sporting CP for £20 million.
Overall, Fulham’s success in recent years can be attributed to their shrewd transfer strategy and their ability to identify undervalued talent. By making smart signings and building a strong team ethos, they have exceeded expectations and established themselves as a competitive force in English football.