Bryan Mbeumo has been crowned the Premier League's Player of the Month for October 2025, a deserved accolade for the Cameroon international following his influential role in Manchester United's five-match unbeaten run. His £70million move from Brentford is already paying dividends, with a quick-fire goal against Liverpool and a brace in the 4-2 win over Brighton highlighting a stellar month.
The Forgotten Heroes of the Monthly Award
While stars like Sergio Aguero and Mo Salah have dominated the award with multiple wins, the honour has also provided a moment in the sun for less-heralded players. These cult heroes, though their time at the top was brief, secured a permanent place in the Premier League's history books with their unexpected triumphs.
Unexpected Winners and Their Brief Glory
Joe Willock earned his big-money move to Newcastle United after an incredible loan spell in May 2021. The midfielder became a goal-scoring sensation, finding the net in seven consecutive games to help the Magpies finish the season strongly.
In February 2016, Fraser Forster was the impenetrable force in Southampton's goal. The keeper made a triumphant return from injury, setting a club record with six consecutive clean sheets, three of which came in a single month to firmly put his name in the England conversation.
Diafra Sakho was the talisman for West Ham in October 2014. The striker was in a rich vein of form, scoring in all three of the Hammers' victories that month, including the match-winning header in a memorable 2-1 win over champions Manchester City at Upton Park.
Deco's Chelsea career began with a bang in August 2008. The Portuguese maestro scored a stunning goal on the opening day against Portsmouth and followed it up with a winner against Wigan. Sadly for the Blues faithful, this early promise proved to be the peak of his time at Stamford Bridge.
Mikael Forssell needed a move away from Chelsea to Birmingham City to truly showcase his talent. In March 2004, the Finnish striker was unstoppable, scoring six goals, including braces against Middlesbrough and Leeds, during a season where he outscored elite forwards like Michael Owen.
Back in October 1997, Paulo Wanchope was the creative heartbeat for Derby County. The Costa Rican forward was directly involved in all five of his team's league goals that month, combining effectively with Francesco Baiano and even scoring against Manchester United in a thrilling draw.
These players remind us that Premier League glory is not reserved solely for the superstars, and that the Player of the Month award can immortalise even the most unexpected of heroes.
