The Best XI from the Premier League’s First Half of the Season

Defense

A solid defense is key to any successful team, and these defenders have been rock-solid, combining leadership, tackling, and composure under pressure.

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Right Back: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

Trent Alexander-Arnold continues to redefine what it means to be a right-back. His passing range and vision make him a unique weapon for Liverpool, often dictating the tempo from deep areas. His ability to whip in dangerous crosses and pick out key passes adds an extra attacking dimension to his team. While his defensive capabilities have sometimes been questioned, this season he has shown significant improvement in that area. His combination of creativity and defensive discipline makes him an easy pick for this XI.

Center Back: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)

Liverpool’s captain has returned to his imperious best this season. His ability to read the game, dominate aerial duels, and lead the backline makes him an invaluable presence. Van Dijk’s composure on the ball allows Liverpool to build from the back without fear. His leadership qualities have also played a massive role in Liverpool’s strong defensive record this season. Few defenders in world football can match his mix of physicality, intelligence, and technical ability.

Center Back: James Tarkowski (Everton)

James Tarkowski has been one of the most consistent and reliable defenders in the league this season. His no-nonsense approach, aerial dominance, and strong tackling have made Everton a much tougher team to break down. His ability to read danger and clear the ball in crucial moments has been vital for Everton’s defensive stability. While he might not always get the headlines, his performances have been among the best of any center-back this season.

Left Back: Antonee Robinson (Fulham)

Robinson has been a standout performer for Fulham, showcasing both defensive stability and attacking intent. His pace allows him to recover quickly in defensive situations, while his dribbling ability makes him a threat going forward. He has also developed into a more well-rounded player, improving his positioning and decision-making. His performances have drawn attention from bigger clubs, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him make a big move in the near future.

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Midfield

The midfield is the heart of any team, balancing defensive stability with attacking creativity, and these two players have excelled in both aspects.

Defensive Midfielder: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)

Since joining Liverpool, Ryan Gravenberch has flourished in a deeper midfield role. His ability to drive forward with the ball, pick out incisive passes, and win duels has been crucial for Liverpool’s midfield dominance. Despite being young, his composure and intelligence on the ball make him look like a seasoned veteran. He has quickly adapted to the Premier League and has the potential to become one of the best midfielders in Europe.

Defensive Midfielder: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)

Elliot Anderson has been a revelation for Nottingham Forest this season, bringing energy and creativity to their midfield. His ability to cover ground, make crucial interceptions, and contribute in attack has made him an integral part of the team. He has also shown an eye for goal, scoring some important strikes from midfield. His versatility allows him to influence games in multiple ways, making him one of the most exciting young midfielders in the league.

Attack

Goals win games, and these attacking players have been the difference-makers, creating and finishing chances with brilliance.

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Right Wing: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Mohamed Salah continues to be Liverpool’s main man in attack, delivering goals and assists with remarkable consistency. His ability to cut inside, beat defenders, and finish with precision makes him one of the most feared wingers in world football. Despite being in his 30s, Salah shows no signs of slowing down, constantly tormenting defenses with his speed and dribbling ability. Once again, he is proving why he remains one of the best players in the Premier League.

Attacking Midfielder: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)

Cole Palmer has been a revelation for Chelsea this season, quickly establishing himself as a key player. His technical ability, vision, and composure in front of goal have made him an exciting addition to the league. Whether creating chances for his teammates or scoring himself, Palmer has been a constant threat. At just 21 years old, he looks like a future superstar for both Chelsea and England.

Left Wing: Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth)

Antoine Semenyo has been one of the breakout stars of the season, delivering outstanding performances for Bournemouth. His pace, dribbling, and finishing ability have made him a nightmare for defenders. While not a household name at the start of the season, his contributions have been crucial for Bournemouth’s attacking play. If he continues at this level, bigger clubs will undoubtedly come calling.

Striker

A team is nothing without a clinical striker, and this forward has led the line brilliantly, scoring goals and leading the attack.

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Striker: Alexander Isak (Newcastle United)

Alexander Isak has been one of the most exciting strikers in the Premier League this season. His combination of technical ability, movement, and clinical finishing makes him a complete forward. Whether scoring from tight angles, linking up with teammates, or pressing defenders, Isak does it all. Newcastle’s attack is built around him, and he continues to deliver big performances when it matters most.