Favourites to win the 2025/26 PFA Premier League Player of the Season

March 5, 2026 Oliver Obel

With the Premier League season entering its final stretch, the race for the 2025/26 PFA Player of the Year award is beginning to take shape. With eight gameweeks left to play, several players have put themselves firmly in contention through standout performances for clubs fighting at the top of the table. Arsenal’s title push, Manchester City’s continued dominance and the resurgence of Manchester United have all played a part in shaping the current shortlist of favourites. While attacking stars often dominate individual awards, this season has also seen defenders and midfield generals receive strong recognition. Here are the 18 players currently leading the race for the Premier League’s most prestigious individual honour.

18. Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea)

Enzo Fernandez has quietly enjoyed one of his most productive seasons since arriving in the Premier League. Operating from a deeper midfield role, the Argentine has added a new dimension to his game by regularly arriving in the penalty area at the right moments. His eight league goals underline just how effective he has been at breaking forward from midfield. Chelsea’s inconsistent campaign may ultimately harm his chances of winning the award, but his individual performances have rarely been questioned. If the Blues finish the season strongly, Fernandez could still end up climbing this list.

17. Bryan Mbeumo (Manchester United)

Bryan Mbeumo has proven to be one of the smartest signings of the season following his move to Manchester United. While the club endured a difficult start to the campaign, the winger remained one of the few consistent performers throughout the turbulence. His direct style and ability to influence games in the final third have added much-needed unpredictability to United’s attack. As the team climbed back up the table, Mbeumo’s contributions became even more valuable. If United maintain their momentum, his importance to their revival will not go unnoticed.

16. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)

Even at 34, Virgil van Dijk continues to demonstrate why he is regarded as one of the Premier League’s greatest defenders. The Dutchman remains Liverpool’s defensive leader and has produced several commanding performances throughout the season. However, Liverpool’s defensive inconsistencies have slightly dimmed his chances of competing for the league’s top individual prize. Despite that, his composure, leadership and reading of the game remain as impressive as ever. Should Liverpool tighten up defensively in the run-in, Van Dijk’s influence could become even more significant.

15. Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)

Moises Caicedo has been central to Chelsea’s midfield throughout the campaign. His ability to break up opposition attacks and dictate the tempo of games has drawn comparisons with the league’s elite holding midfielders. At his best, Caicedo dominates the middle of the park with relentless energy and tactical intelligence. However, moments of ill-discipline have occasionally undermined his otherwise impressive performances. If he can maintain consistency during the final weeks of the season, he could yet emerge as one of the Premier League’s most influential midfielders.

14. Rayan Cherki (Manchester City)

Rayan Cherki’s first season in the Premier League has offered plenty of glimpses of his immense talent. The French winger has quickly adapted to Pep Guardiola’s demanding tactical system and has provided creativity and flair in City’s forward line. His ability to beat defenders and create opportunities has made him an exciting presence whenever he is on the ball. While his numbers are still developing, three goals and seven assists represent a promising start. With Manchester City chasing silverware once again, Cherki could still play a decisive role in the title race.

13. Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool)

Hugo Ekitike has quietly enjoyed an impressive campaign in Liverpool’s attack. Initially expected to play a supporting role, the striker has instead become a reliable source of goals for the Reds. His tally of 11 goals and five assists highlights his ability to influence games in multiple ways. Ekitike’s movement and composure in front of goal have allowed him to flourish in Liverpool’s attacking system. Had the team performed more consistently, his contributions might have attracted even greater attention.

12. Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)

Dominik Szoboszlai has been one of Liverpool’s most dependable performers this season. Whether deployed in an attacking midfield role or deeper in the system, the Hungarian has delivered consistently impressive displays. His long-range shooting ability has produced several spectacular goals, including memorable strikes against top opposition. Szoboszlai’s work rate and technical quality make him a vital part of Liverpool’s midfield engine. If the Reds finish the season strongly, his influence could be a key factor in their success.

11. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

Bukayo Saka remains one of Arsenal’s most important players, even if his numbers have not quite reached the heights of previous seasons. The winger continues to stretch defences with his pace, creativity and intelligent movement. His presence alone often forces opponents to adjust their defensive structure. While the goals and assists have been slightly lower than usual, his all-around contribution to Arsenal’s attacking play remains invaluable. As the title race intensifies, Saka could still produce decisive moments.

10. David Raya (Arsenal)

David Raya has quietly built a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most reliable goalkeepers. Playing behind Arsenal’s organised defence, he has shown remarkable concentration and composure when called upon. Raya may not always face a barrage of shots, but when he is required to act, he rarely disappoints. His shot-stopping ability and distribution have both been crucial to Arsenal’s style of play. In a season dominated by defensive discipline, his consistency has made him one of the league’s standout goalkeepers.

9. William Saliba (Arsenal)

William Saliba has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most elegant defenders. The French centre-back combines physical dominance with exceptional composure on the ball. His partnership at the heart of Arsenal’s defence has played a huge role in the team’s impressive defensive record. Saliba rarely looks rushed and often makes difficult defensive actions appear effortless. With Arsenal pushing for the title, his presence at the back has been a crucial foundation.

8. Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal)

Martin Zubimendi’s arrival has added another layer of control to Arsenal’s midfield. The Spanish international operates at the base of the midfield with calm authority, dictating the rhythm of matches. His positioning and passing ability allow Arsenal to transition smoothly between defence and attack. Zubimendi’s presence has also helped bring the best out of the players around him, particularly Declan Rice. While he may not always grab the headlines, his tactical intelligence has been vital to Arsenal’s success.

7. Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)

Bernardo Silva continues to be one of the most reliable performers in Manchester City’s squad. Now wearing the captain’s armband, the Portuguese midfielder has embraced the responsibility with typical energy and dedication. His tireless work rate and technical brilliance allow him to thrive in several different roles across the pitch. Even during a transitional period for the club, Silva has remained a stabilising presence. If City once again lift the title, his leadership will have played a major part.

6. Marc Guehi (Manchester City)

Marc Guehi has made a seamless transition to life at Manchester City following his move from Crystal Palace. The defender has strengthened City’s back line with his calm distribution and intelligent positioning. His presence has helped the team become more secure defensively while also improving their build-up play. Guehi’s leadership qualities have also been evident since his arrival. With City competing on multiple fronts, his performances have quickly justified the club’s investment.

5. Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City)

antonio semenyo — Photo: www.mancity.com

Antoine Semenyo has enjoyed a breakthrough season that has elevated him into the spotlight. The winger’s pace, strength and direct running have made him one of the most dangerous attackers in the league. Across spells with Bournemouth and Manchester City, he has contributed 18 goal involvements in the Premier League. His ability to impact games both as a scorer and creator has made him an invaluable attacking option. Few players have improved their reputation as dramatically this season.

4. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)

Bruno Fernandes remains the heartbeat of Manchester United’s midfield. The Portuguese playmaker continues to lead by example with relentless work rate and creativity. His vision and passing range allow him to unlock defences even in the tightest matches. Fernandes has also created an extraordinary number of chances once again, underlining his influence on United’s attacking play. Without his leadership and quality, United’s resurgence this season would have been far more difficult.

3. Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)

Gabriel Magalhaes has been one of the key figures behind Arsenal’s defensive solidity. The Brazilian centre-back combines physical power with a growing threat in the opposition penalty area. His aerial ability has made him a constant danger during set pieces, particularly from corners. Gabriel’s partnership in defence has also helped Arsenal maintain one of the best defensive records in the league. With the Gunners chasing the title, his contributions at both ends of the pitch have been invaluable.

2. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)

Erling Haaland has once again delivered extraordinary numbers in front of goal. With 22 goals in just 27 appearances, the Norwegian striker remains the league’s most feared finisher. However, his game has also evolved this season, with a career-best tally of assists showing his growing influence in Manchester City’s attack. Haaland’s movement and physical presence constantly stretch opposition defences. Even in matches where City struggle, he remains capable of deciding the outcome in an instant.

1. Declan Rice (Arsenal)

Declan Rice has emerged as the clear favourite for the 2025/26 PFA Player of the Year award. The Arsenal midfielder has dominated matches with a combination of defensive awareness, leadership and technical quality. His ability to cover ground, break up attacks and drive his team forward has made him indispensable. Rice’s influence extends far beyond statistics, as he sets the tone for Arsenal’s intensity and organisation. If the Gunners secure the title, his performances will almost certainly be remembered as the driving force behind their success.