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<p>The Championship begins this Friday.</p>
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<img alt="10 players to watch in the Championship this season - Issahaku Fatawu, Jay Stansfield & Co."
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title="10 players to watch in the Championship this season - Issahaku Fatawu, Jay Stansfield & Co." />
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<p>The Championship is renowned as one of the most thrilling leagues in world football, often delivering unpredictable outcomes. It ranks as the sixth most valuable league globally, outpacing top divisions like Liga Portugal and the Eredivisie. The English second tier serves as a fantastic platform for players demonstrating their skills to Premier League clubs. This Friday, the action resumes with promoted Birmingham taking on relegated Ipswich in the season opener. Ahead of the new campaign, <em>Transfermarkt</em> has selected 10 players to keep an eye on this season in the Championship.</p>
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<h2>10 Players to Watch in the Championship This Season</h2>
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<h2><strong>Finn Azaz - Middlesbrough</strong></h2>
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<p>Last season, Finn Azaz from Middlesbrough emerged as one of the most creative players in the Championship, netting 12 goals and assisting 11 - becoming one of only two players to achieve double figures in both metrics. Now 24, Azaz is entering his prime, and if Boro retains his talents, he could be looking forward to another successful campaign ahead. His current market value stands at €16 million.</p>
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<h2><strong>Gustavo Hamer - Sheffield United</strong></h2>
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<p>On May 24, Gustavo Hamer faced heartbreak as part of the losing team in the play-off final, despite being a standout on the pitch. He orchestrated the goal that initially put Sheffield United in the lead but was forced off with an injury during the second half, which prompted Sunderland's comeback. He concluded the last season with nine goals and seven assists from midfield, establishing himself as one of the Championship's top talents, currently valued at €16 million.</p>
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<h2><strong>Mathias Kvistgaarden - Norwich</strong></h2>
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<p>Norwich fans should be thrilled about the acquisition of Danish forward Mathias Kvistgaarden, who has joined from Brondby after scoring 23 goals in 38 matches last season. Despite the Canaries securing his transfer for only €8 million, his market value is €15 million. With the departure of Borja Sainz and Josh Sargent's uncertain future, Kvistgaarden is poised to become a key striker for Norwich.</p>
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<h2><strong>Jack Clarke - Ipswich</strong></h2>
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<p>Although Jack Clarke wasn't quite ready for the Premier League last season, he displayed potential that suggests he could reveal his true capabilities in the Championship with Ipswich this year. The 24-year-old has shone during pre-season, and with several prominent players transitioning away from the club, he is positioned to step into the spotlight. His current market value is €15 million.</p>
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<h2><strong>Jack Rudoni - Coventry</strong></h2>
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<p>Jack Rudoni stood out as one of last season's breakout stars in the Championship, thriving under Frank Lampard's guidance. The Coventry midfielder finished the season with nine goals and 12 assists and scored critical goals, including in the play-off semi-final against Sunderland. At just 24 years old, he is valued at €12 million and looks poised for another significant year.</p>
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<h2><strong>Issahaku Fatawu - Leicester</strong></h2>
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<p>Issahaku Fatawu left a memorable impression after scoring an unbelievable solo goal in Leicester's recent match against Fiorentina, showcasing his pace, dribbling, and finishing skills. The 21-year-old joined from Sporting last summer but played only 577 minutes in the Premier League last season. This campaign could be his moment to shine in English football, with a current market value of €11 million.</p>
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<h2><strong>Jay Stansfield - Birmingham</strong></h2>
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<p>Jay Stansfield made headlines as Birmingham's record League One signing at €17.6 million last summer. He has begun to validate that figure by scoring 19 goals in League One, helping the Blues secure promotion. At 22 years old, he also played a vital role for England U21 in their European Championship success. His current market value is €11 million, likely to increase if he continues his upward trajectory in the Championship.</p>
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<h2><strong>Anis Mehmeti - Bristol City</strong></h2>
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<p>Bristol City made a surprising playoff run last season, with Albanian winger Anis Mehmeti being a significant contributor. The 24-year-old scored 12 goals from the left-wing and started to find his rhythm in the Championship. With that experience, Mehmeti could thrive again this season, holding a market value of €7 million.</p>
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<h2><strong>Joshua Quarshie - Southampton</strong></h2>
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<p>Southampton's signing of defender Joshua Quarshie for €3.5 million from Hoffenheim could be one of their most savvy moves this summer. At just 21, he has been a consistent part of Germany's youth setups and has featured prominently for the Saints in pre-season. If he secures a regular spot in Will Still’s lineup, his current market value of €3 million is likely to rise significantly.</p>
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<h2><strong>Callum Lang - Portsmouth</strong></h2>
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<p>Callum Lang scored four goals in a match against Coventry last season, showcasing his skills as he netted 10 goals in 32 appearances before injury cut his campaign short. For a team battling relegation, his determination and ability stood out. Reports indicate Pompey has rejected offers for the 26-year-old this summer, and if they retain his services at Fratton Park, he could have a standout season ahead.</p>
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