The Premier League 2025-26 season has delivered exceptional performances from a host of talented individuals. Our picks for the best players highlight two deadly strikers, two creative forces, and an almost unbeatable goalkeeper.
Bruno Fernandes: The Indispensable Captain
The adulation surrounding Bruno Fernandes underscores his extraordinary season. Initially dragging Ruben Amorim's tactical setup through matches, he later led Michael Carrick's unified side with distinction. Awards and records have poured in: winning the Football Writers' Association player of the season award was swiftly followed by a record Premier League assist tally of 21 on the final day against Brighton. Considering Manchester United were open to selling Fernandes less than a year ago, his absence would have been keenly felt. "At one point I was going to leave – I won't say where – but I would have won many trophies that season. I decided to stay not only for family reasons but because I genuinely like the club," Fernandes told Canal 11. "But from the club's side, I felt a bit of: 'If you go, it's not really that bad for us.' That hurts me a little. More than hurting, it makes me sad, because I'm a player they have nothing to criticise me for." His intelligence, work rate, and stunning technique have elevated him above his teammates, making him arguably the most influential captain in the league.
David Raya: The Reliable Last Line
Title-winning teams often focus on attacking flair, but David Raya deserves immense credit. An upgrade on Aaron Ramsdale, the Spaniard has shared the Golden Glove for most clean sheets in each of his three seasons at Arsenal. Starting every league game except the final match at Selhurst Park, he is integral to Mikel Arteta's plans. While the defence ahead of him often keeps him quiet, Raya remains focused and delivers crucial saves at critical moments, helping Arsenal edge out Manchester City for the title.
Erling Haaland: The Prolific Goal Machine
Despite detractors who claim he benefits from creative teammates, Erling Haaland's 27 league goals at a rate of one every 110 minutes are remarkable. For context, golden boot runner-up Igor Thiago needs an extra 39 minutes per goal. Haaland's all-round contribution is often underestimated; he also provided eight assists. Pep Guardiola stated in February, "Erling is the best striker in the world," and disputing that seems futile.
Igor Thiago: Brentford's Revelation
After Brentford lost key players and manager Thomas Frank, many predicted relegation. However, Igor Thiago, alongside Keith Andrews, propelled them to ninth. After two serious injuries in his first season, Thiago scored 12 goals in his first 14 games this campaign. Carlo Ancelotti was impressed enough to include him in Brazil's World Cup squad. "He's already shown he can be a top performer in the Premier League," Andrews said. "He gives the opposition a headache."
Morgan Gibbs-White: Forest's Creative Heart
Morgan Gibbs-White endured a 13-game goal drought but flourished under Sean Dyche and later Vítor Pereira. Embracing the captaincy, he helped Nottingham Forest maintain Premier League status and reach the Europa League semi-finals. With 15 goals in 37 games, he is one of the most feared No. 10s in the country. "When things are not happening, a lot of players could prefer to hide themselves," Pereira said. "But Morgan wants the ball, he wants the responsibility."
