Premier League 2025-26 Team of the Season
The Premier League 2025-26 season has concluded, and WhoScored has compiled its annual Team of the Season, featuring a mix of Arsenal and Manchester City stars alongside breakout performers from across the league. David Raya, Bruno Fernandes, and Igor Thiago headline the XI.
Goalkeeper: David Raya (Arsenal)
Raya secured his third consecutive Golden Glove with 19 clean sheets, just one shy of the record held by Petr Cech and Joe Hart. However, it was his crucial saves in high-pressure moments that earned him a spot. The Spaniard delivered when it mattered most: against Brighton in December, at Stamford Bridge in March, and notably a smothering save from Mateus Fernandes against West Ham in the final weeks. In a season of fine margins, Raya proved to be Arsenal's difference-maker.
Right-Back: Matheus Nunes (Manchester City)
After being publicly criticized by Pep Guardiola for lacking intelligence in midfield, Nunes reinvented himself as one of the league's best right-backs. His athleticism and ball-carrying ability set him apart, making him a key asset for City following his £53m move from Wolves.
Centre-Back: Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal)
Gabriel formed the aggressive half of the league's best centre-back partnership, thriving in physical duels, including battles with Erling Haaland. He made 32 appearances with 17 clean sheets, contributing to Arsenal's best defensive record since the Invincibles in 2003-04. Gabriel also excelled in attack, scoring three goals and four assists, as Arsenal led the league with 24 set-piece goals, including a record 18 from corners.
Centre-Back: William Saliba (Arsenal)
Saliba bounced back from a difficult season, admitting he needed to improve. He was dribbled past only seven times, the third-fewest in the league, and completed 92.9% of his passes. His calmness and composure were vital, and after winning his first Premier League title, he stated, "I am not full. I want more."
Left-Back: Nico O'Reilly (Manchester City)
O'Reilly displaced £36m signing Rayan Aït-Nouri and made the left-back position his own. Only four City players logged more minutes than the 21-year-old. His versatility—comfortable in midfield or attacking the back post—made him a valuable asset in Guardiola's system. He finished with nine goals and six assists across all competitions, earning a place in England's World Cup squad.
Midfielder: Declan Rice (Arsenal)
Rice was Arsenal's heartbeat, contributing to every phase of play. He created 63 chances, more than any teammate, and carried the ball upfield more than anyone else. His relentless work protected the league's best defence, and he regained possession more than any other Arsenal player. From a defensive midfielder at West Ham, Rice evolved into Arsenal's "Mr Everything."
Midfielder: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
Fernandes had a stellar season, winning the Football Writers' player of the year and Premier League player of the season awards. He set a new Premier League assists record with 21, surpassing Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne, and created 136 chances—58 more than any other player. Remarkably, he achieved this while playing in a deeper role under Ruben Amorim for half the season.
Midfielder: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)
Anderson was a constant for Forest in a tumultuous season, leading the league in touches and duels won. The 23-year-old covered over 250 miles, second only to James Garner, while breaking lines with his passing and carrying the ball forward. His relentless workrate earned him a World Cup call-up.
Forward: Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City)
Semenyo's journey from non-league loans to a £62.5m City move is remarkable. He scored 17 Premier League goals for Bournemouth and City, ranking third in the division. After joining in January, he scored five times in his first eight league appearances, solving City's winger problem. He also scored the only goal in the FA Cup final.
Forward: Igor Thiago (Brentford)
Thiago exceeded all expectations, scoring 22 goals to make the team of the season. Only four players in Europe's top five leagues scored more: Harry Kane (36), Erling Haaland (27), Kylian Mbappé (25), and Vedat Muriqi (23). He replaced the output of Ivan Toney, Bryan Mbeumo, and Yoane Wissa, leading Brentford's attack.
Forward: Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Haaland scored 27 league goals, his second-best return in England, and adapted to Guardiola's more direct approach. He acted as a facilitator, drawing defenders out of position and initiating attacks. His eight open-play assists ranked third in the league behind Rayan Cherki and Fernandes.
