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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
National
George Lomas

What do Premier League players do during their summer holidays?

We’re currently situated in the no man’s land of Premier League football as we (and more importantly the footballers) take a well earned break from constant top flight soccer and wait for the new campaign to begin.

And if you have the money of a Premier League footballer, the options of what you can do during your break are vast.

Here, we round up what some of the Premier League’s top players have been up to in their summer break.

Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United)

This summer has been a very busy one for Anthony Gordon.

He was spotted in the Royal box on Day 4 of Wimbledon alongside the likes of comedian Jack Whitehall and adventurer Bear Grylls. Despite seeing British hopeful Dan Evans crash out against Novak Djokovic in straight sets, Gordon appeared to be making the most of the occasion.

The winger was seen holidaying with Liverpool star Curtis Jones, a sighting that only added fuel to the fire in terms of growing speculation that a move to the Reds is potentially on the cards. Gordon shared an Instagram clip of himself boxing as part of his summer post, a sure sign that no one will want to get into a scrap with him on the pitch next season.

Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

Arsenal's golden boy, Bukayo Saka, made the most of his summer across the pond and closer to home. He was seen in New York as he made a short trip there at the end of the season. Back in London, Saka recently graced Wimbledon with his presence, where he was pictured having a conversation with defending champion and tennis ace Carlos Alcaraz.

Saka (Getty Images for AELTC)

Fans will be hoping that the Spanish sensation was able to impart some sterling advice on securing a winning mentality, a crucial element as Saka prepares for a new campaign under Mikel Arteta.

Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)

Arsenal's midfield maestro, Martin Ødegaard, marked a significant personal milestone this summer. While he had privately married his then-pregnant partner, dancer Helene Spilling, in October, June saw the couple host a beautiful ceremony in Norway.

This joyous occasion was a star-studded affair, with a host of Arsenal teammates such as Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka in attendance.

James Maddison

Maddison showcased a summer well spent, sharing a post on everything he’s been up to so far this Summer with the caption "away from the pitch". Still buzzing from Tottenham’s first piece of silverware since 2008, he proudly revealed a tattoo celebrating Tottenham's Europa League victory. He also took the time to meet up with old friends from his Leicester days, enjoying catch-ups with former teammates Jamie Vardy and Harry Maguire.

Adding a touch of football nostalgia to his holiday, the playmaker posted a photo of himself donning a vintage Luka Modrić shirt. Perhaps he can channel the Croatian's legendary playmaking ability in Tottenham’s upcoming campaign, especially with a spot at next summer's World Cup up for grabs.

The Old and the New (Instagram)

Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)

This summer has truly been a series of highs for Eberechi Eze. Beyond leading Crystal Palace to their first-ever major trophy, he celebrated a glorious personal milestone. Having initially married his childhood sweetheart in 2022, the couple held a traditional ceremony this summer, with the star notably styled by Burberry.

Eze was also seen playing chess with none other than billionaire Richard Branson. The Crystal Palace star is a keen chess player and brought his A game to the Virgin founder, even causing Branson to jokingly throw a drink at him after a loss.

A meeting of minds (ESPN)

Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)

While Manchester United reportedly spent the summer trying to sign him from Brentford, Bryan Mbeumo was truly living the definition of an off-season. He was seemingly here, there, and everywhere.

His summer itinerary included watching Carlos Alcaraz at the French Open, travelling to Toronto, and exploring various parts of the US. He also made an appearance at a Formula 1 event, perhaps hoping to channel that rapid speed when moving past defenders next season.

Keeping Cool (Instagram)

Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

Another series of wedding bells chimed, this time it was Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins. In a joyous celebration, Watkins married his long-term partner Ellie Alderson in May, celebrating with friends and family at the iconic Marylebone Town Hall.

The Happy Couple (Instagram)

Later on in the summer, Watkins attended the hugely entertaining fight between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn at Tottenham Stadium. At the event he could be seen pictured alongside the England teammate Declan Rice.

Ballers (Instagram)

Matheus Cunha (Manchester United)

Manchester United's new signing, Matheus Cunha, enjoyed a well-deserved summer break before embarking on his new chapter at Old Trafford. Soaking in his free time, he can be seen on Instagram playing footvolley and surfing on holiday, showcasing a level of athletic prowess, United will want to see at Old Trafford in the upcoming season.

A man of the people (Instagram)

He also took the time to meet with young footballers in the community whilst on his break, indicating to United fans the sort of kind-hearted character he possesses.

James Milner (Brighton & Hove Albion)

Not so Boring Milner (Instagram)

At 39 years old and having just signed a contract extension at Brighton, James Milner is hardly a promising young prospect, but his summer has been a testament to his enduring professionalism. He has dedicated his time to intense fitness work, even proudly showcasing on Instagram that his "Whoop age" (a fitness metric) is a remarkable 27, proving he's making significant progress.

Benjamin Button? (Instagram)

Amid his rigorous training, James Milner was able to balance physical conditioning with relaxation, enjoying golf and a well-deserved holiday. He's now just 20 games shy of surpassing Gareth Barry's all-time Premier League appearance record. Does this promising young talent have what it takes?

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