Middlesbrough FC Squad 2024/25

Middlesbrough FC Squad 2024/25

Middlesbrough FC, a club steeped in history and tradition, enters the 2024/25 season with a squad brimming with talent, ambition, and a mix of experienced heads and youthful exuberance. After a series of strategic signings and the development of homegrown players, the team is poised to make a significant impact in the Championship, with aspirations of securing promotion to the Premier League. This season’s roster reflects a careful balance of defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking firepower, ensuring that Middlesbrough remains a formidable force in English football. Below, we take an in-depth look at the players who will don the iconic red and white jersey this campaign, categorized by their positions.

Goalkeepers

1. Seny Dieng

  • Nationality: Senegalese
  • Former Clubs: Queens Park Rangers, Doncaster Rovers (loan), Dundee United (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: £2 million (2023)
    Seny Dieng has established himself as Middlesbrough’s first-choice goalkeeper since his arrival from Queens Park Rangers. Standing at 6’5”, Dieng is a commanding presence in the box, excelling in aerial duels and shot-stopping. His quick reflexes and ability to read the game have made him a reliable last line of defense. Dieng’s distribution is also a key asset, often initiating counterattacks with pinpoint long balls. With over 100 Championship appearances, his experience is invaluable to the squad.

2. Tom Glover

  • Nationality: Australian
  • Former Clubs: Melbourne City, Sint-Truiden (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: Free (2023)
    Tom Glover, the Australian shot-stopper, provides strong competition for Dieng. Known for his agility and composure under pressure, Glover has impressed in cup competitions and as a backup option. His time in the A-League honed his shot-stopping abilities, and he has adapted well to the demands of English football. Glover’s ability to play out from the back aligns with Middlesbrough’s tactical approach, making him a dependable option when called upon.

3. Sol Brynn

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: Leyton Orient (loan), Queen of the South (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
    A product of Middlesbrough’s esteemed academy, Sol Brynn is a promising young goalkeeper with a bright future. Having gained valuable experience on loan at Leyton Orient and Queen of the South, Brynn has developed into a confident and capable keeper. His shot-stopping ability and command of the penalty area have earned him recognition as one of the Championship’s top young talents. While primarily serving as third-choice, Brynn is expected to challenge for more minutes in the coming seasons.

Defenders

1. Dael Fry

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: None (Academy Graduate)
    Dael Fry is the embodiment of Middlesbrough’s defensive resilience. A homegrown talent, Fry has been a mainstay in the backline for several seasons. His ability to read the game, coupled with his physicality and aerial prowess, makes him a formidable center-back. Fry’s leadership qualities have also seen him wear the captain’s armband on occasion, highlighting his importance to the team. At 27, he is entering his prime and remains a cornerstone of Middlesbrough’s defense.

2. Rav van den Berg

  • Nationality: Dutch
  • Former Clubs: PEC Zwolle
  • Transfer Fee: £1.5 million (2023)
    Rav van den Berg, the young Dutch defender, has quickly become a fan favorite since his arrival from PEC Zwolle. Comfortable playing as a center-back or right-back, van den Berg’s versatility is a major asset. His composure on the ball, combined with his defensive acumen, has made him a key figure in Middlesbrough’s backline. At just 20 years old, van den Berg’s potential is immense, and he is widely regarded as one of the brightest defensive prospects in the Championship.

3. Lukas Engel

  • Nationality: Danish
  • Former Clubs: Silkeborg IF
  • Transfer Fee: £1 million (2023)
    Lukas Engel, the Danish left-back, has brought stability and attacking impetus to Middlesbrough’s defense. Known for his overlapping runs and precise crosses, Engel is a modern full-back who contributes equally to defense and attack. His defensive discipline and ability to track back quickly have made him a reliable option on the flank. Engel’s performances have drawn attention from higher divisions, but Middlesbrough will be keen to retain his services.

4. Anfernee Dijksteel

  • Nationality: Dutch
  • Former Clubs: Charlton Athletic
  • Transfer Fee: £2 million (2019)
    Anfernee Dijksteel’s versatility has been a valuable asset for Middlesbrough. Capable of playing as a right-back, center-back, or even in midfield, Dijksteel’s adaptability has made him a useful squad player. His physicality and ability to carry the ball forward add an extra dimension to the team’s play. While not always a regular starter, Dijksteel’s contributions have been crucial in key moments.

5. Matt Clarke

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: Brighton & Hove Albion, Derby County (loan), West Bromwich Albion (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: £2.5 million (2022)
    Matt Clarke’s arrival from Brighton brought much-needed experience to Middlesbrough’s defense. A no-nonsense center-back, Clarke excels in aerial duels and is a dominant presence in both boxes. His leadership and organizational skills have been instrumental in shoring up the backline. Despite battling injuries, Clarke remains a vital part of the squad when fit.

6. Alex Bangura

  • Nationality: Sierra Leonean
  • Former Clubs: Cambuur
  • Transfer Fee: £1.2 million (2023)
    Alex Bangura, the Sierra Leonean left-back, has added depth and competition to Middlesbrough’s defensive options. Known for his pace and tenacity, Bangura is a tireless worker who excels in one-on-one situations. His ability to contribute offensively, particularly with his crossing, has made him a useful option in wide areas.

Midfielders

1. Hayden Hackney

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: None (Academy Graduate)
    Hayden Hackney is the heartbeat of Middlesbrough’s midfield. A technically gifted player with an eye for a pass, Hackney’s ability to control the tempo of the game has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best midfielders. His work rate and defensive contributions make him a well-rounded player, capable of excelling in both attacking and defensive roles. At just 22, Hackney’s potential is limitless, and he is already a key figure for the team.

2. Dan Barlaser

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: Newcastle United, Rotherham United
  • Transfer Fee: £1 million (2023)
    Dan Barlaser’s arrival from Rotherham United added creativity and set-piece expertise to Middlesbrough’s midfield. A composed and intelligent player, Barlaser’s range of passing and ability to dictate play have been crucial in breaking down opposition defenses. His dead-ball delivery is among the best in the Championship, making him a constant threat from free-kicks and corners.

3. Riley McGree

  • Nationality: Australian
  • Former Clubs: Adelaide United, Club Brugge, Charlotte FC, Birmingham City (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: £3 million (2022)
    Riley McGree’s energy and versatility have made him a fan favorite at Middlesbrough. Capable of playing as a central midfielder or in an advanced role, McGree’s driving runs and eye for goal have added a new dimension to the team’s attack. His technical ability and work ethic make him a key component of Middlesbrough’s midfield.

4. Lewis O’Brien

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: Huddersfield Town, Nottingham Forest, D.C. United (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
    Lewis O’Brien’s loan signing from Nottingham Forest has added depth and quality to Middlesbrough’s midfield. A dynamic and tenacious player, O’Brien’s ability to break up play and drive forward with the ball has been a welcome addition. His experience in the Championship and Premier League makes him a valuable asset for the squad.

Forwards

1. Emmanuel Latte Lath

  • Nationality: Ivorian
  • Former Clubs: Atalanta, St. Gallen (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: £3.5 million (2023)
    Emmanuel Latte Lath has quickly established himself as Middlesbrough’s leading striker. Blessed with pace, power, and clinical finishing, Latte Lath has been a constant threat to opposition defenses. His ability to hold up play and bring others into the game has added a new dimension to Middlesbrough’s attack. With 15 goals in his debut season, Latte Lath is poised for another prolific campaign.

2. Marcus Forss

  • Nationality: Finnish
  • Former Clubs: Brentford
  • Transfer Fee: £3.2 million (2022)
    Marcus Forss’ versatility and goal-scoring ability make him a key player for Middlesbrough. Capable of playing as a central striker or on the wing, Forss’ movement and finishing have been crucial in tight games. His work rate and ability to press from the front align perfectly with the team’s tactical approach.

3. Josh Coburn

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: Bristol Rovers (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
    Josh Coburn, the young English striker, has emerged as one of Middlesbrough’s most exciting prospects. A powerful and clinical finisher, Coburn’s physicality and aerial ability make him a handful for defenders. His loan spell at Bristol Rovers provided valuable experience, and he is now ready to make an impact at the Championship level.

Conclusion

The 2024/25 Middlesbrough FC squad is a blend of youth and experience, with each player bringing unique qualities to the team. From the commanding presence of Seny Dieng in goal to the attacking flair of Emmanuel Latte Lath, the squad is well-equipped to compete at the highest level. With a mix of homegrown talent and shrewd signings, Middlesbrough’s ambitions for promotion are well within reach. As the season unfolds, the Riverside Stadium will undoubtedly be filled with optimism and excitement, as the team strives to achieve its goals and bring glory back to Teesside.