How are the top South American players in the EPL faring so far this season?

Soccer is still the most popular sport on the planet and has billions of loyal fans all over the world. When you see the awesome action that top teams offer on the field and the amount of off-field drama that soccer generates, this is easy to understand.

The beautiful game is also so popular because it is a great sport to bet on. This is because the best competitions worldwide have lots of games happening regularly and plenty of markets to explore. As this MLS versus Liga MX overview shows, North America is home to not one but two awesome competitions which makes for a wealth of sports betting options. The same can be said for many other global locations where top-level soccer leagues are found.

One of the most well-known leagues for those who follow and bet on soccer is the EPL. Known for its excitement and frenetic pace, the EPL is also home to a multi-national array of top sporting talent. Players from South America feature heavily in this – but how are some of the top South Americans faring in the current season?

Luis Diaz

It might seem a little early to include this Columbian winger in our list – after all, Liverpool’s deal for Luis Diaz only took place in January 2022. His impact on Merseyside has been so impressive though that he demands to be included. Two goals in 12 appearances so far shows that he has settled in well. His general play has lit up the EPL since January.

His first goal against Norwich in mid-February 2022 was a real gem for example. Full of pace, fast dribbling, creativity and direct running, he has proved a real hit. If he can keep up this form for the rest of the season, he will have really made a positive impression.

Ederson

One of the most prominent and talented South American’s currently playing in the EPL is Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson. Since signing for Manchester City, he has demonstrated what makes him one of the world’s best in that position and enjoyed a brilliant time. A big physical presence, he is not only adept at pulling off amazing saves but also has great distribution skills.

So far in the 2021/22 season, he has been in fine form again and helped City concede just 18 goals so far. This has led to them vying with Liverpool for the EPL title when the season ends. If City does manage to hang on and lift the trophy, Ederson’s contribution over the campaign will have been key.

Thiago Silva

Brazilian Thiago Silva has enjoyed an illustrious career wherever he has been, so it was a real coup for Chelsea when they signed him in August 2020. His first season proved to be a real success. He picked up a Champions League winners medal after Chelsea beat Manchester City in the final 1-0.

Silva is a clever, experienced defender who is tactically astute and tough in the tackle. He is also great with the ball at his feet and has a good range of passing. In the current 2021/22 season, he has played 35 times so far and has generally been in good form for the Blues. A key leader at the back for Thomas Tuchel, he is one of the first names on the team sheet and has helped Chelsea continue to challenge for a place in the top four in the EPL for the season.

Gabriel Jesus

Another South American player in the EPL currently is forward Gabriel Jesus at Manchester City. Since signing from Palmeiras in 2016, he has won many medals with the team and scored some key goals. Known for his pace, finishing and hard work, Jesus is also versatile enough to play anywhere along the front line.

But how has his season gone so far in 2021/22? In truth, he will probably feel it has been a bit underwhelming and be frustrated about the amount of playing time he has seen. With manager Pep Guardiola not always playing with an out and out striker, Jesus has not featured heavily for City. This shows as he has only scored six goals to date and not been a regular starter. Although a key part of the squad, we feel he might soon become fed up with being a bit-part player.

Top South Americans lighting up the EPL in 21/22

As the above shows, there are some awesome South American stars who are currently playing in the EPL. When you also add in players such as Richarlison at Everton, Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal and Emiliano Martinez at Aston Villa, it becomes even more clear just how much players from this part of the world offer the league.