Premier League 2025-26 Player of the Year power rankings: Haaland leads the early charge

November 11, 2025 Kris Isaksen

As the Premier League heads into the November international break, it's time to take stock of the season so far. Arsenal sit top of the table, but with only 10 points separating third from 18th, the fight across the league is tighter than ever. Here's a look at the players making the strongest case for Player of the Year, ranked from ten to one.

10. Jeremy Doku (Manchester City)

Jeremy Doku’s dazzling display against Liverpool has elevated him into the spotlight. The Belgian winger’s dribbling ability is electric, and this season he’s shown more tactical discipline by playing centrally, helping City regain momentum. Though his stats are modest, his recent performance was arguably one of the season’s best.

9. Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal)

Zubimendi has quickly become a key cog in Arsenal’s midfield, offering composure and vision reminiscent of the Wenger era. His ability to break lines with precision passing and a newfound knack for goals makes him a vital part of Mikel Arteta’s system. As Arteta put it, Zubimendi is bringing "another dimension" to the side.

8. Bryan Mbeumo (Manchester United)

In a season of ongoing struggles for United, Bryan Mbeumo has been a rare bright spot. With five goals in 11 league matches, he’s stepped up in big moments and earned the Premier League Player of the Month award for October. Wayne Rooney called him United’s best signing, and fans are already anxious about his absence during AFCON.

7. Declan Rice (Arsenal)

Declan Rice’s £100 million move has proven a masterstroke for Arsenal. The England international has brought both grit and creative freedom, contributing at both ends of the pitch. With set-piece delivery and newfound attacking responsibilities, he’s evolved into a complete midfielder under Arteta’s guidance.

6. Granit Xhaka (Sunderland)

Xhaka’s return to the Premier League with newly-promoted Sunderland has been nothing short of inspiring. Acting as a leader in a youthful squad, he’s brought top-level experience and tactical intelligence. Wayne Rooney even called him the best signing in the league, a remarkable turnaround for the once-divisive midfielder.

5. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)

After recovering from a devastating ACL injury, Timber has returned stronger than ever, now the best one-on-one defender in the Premier League. His versatility across the backline and aerial threat on set pieces have been crucial for Arsenal. Jack Wilshere praised his leadership and adaptability across multiple positions.

4. Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth)

Semenyo has been one of the breakout stars of the season, with six goals and three assists in just 11 games. His decision to stay at Bournemouth despite interest from bigger clubs has paid off, as he continues to flourish under Andoni Iraola. If his form holds, a move to an elite club like Real Madrid might be on the horizon.

3. Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)

Moisés Caicedo — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

Caicedo has been a consistent force in Chelsea’s turbulent season, anchoring the midfield with aggression and poise. Praised by Jamie Carragher and teammates alike, the Ecuadorian has won over doubters and silenced critics. He’s Chelsea’s most reliable presence, playing nearly every minute and excelling in every role he’s asked to perform.

2. Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)

Gabriel has been a rock at the back for league-leading Arsenal, dominating both defensively and on set pieces. Arteta highlighted his world-class ability to control both boxes, making him a rare all-round defender. If Arsenal lift the title, Gabriel could become the first centre-back in years to win the PFA Players' Player of the Year.

1. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)

Haaland is once again redefining goalscoring, sitting on 99 Premier League goals after just 108 appearances. With 14 already this season, he’s the single biggest reason City remain in title contention. Guardiola has compared his impact to Messi and Ronaldo, and even if Haaland shrugs off the hype, his numbers speak for themselves.