Top 10 Premier League Players in 2026
The 2025/2026 Premier League season has been unpredictable when judging individual player performances. Few have truly stood out, making it tough to pinpoint the best in the league.
As the English top flight remains the most-watched and competitive football league worldwide, these players define its high level. This list ranks the ten footballers who are excelling currently based on their recent performances and contributions as the season nears its end.
10. Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)
Despite Liverpool's struggles this season, Dominik Szoboszlai has been key for the team. This athletic midfielder is known for his powerful shots from distance and precise set-piece delivery. By April, he had recorded five goals and three assists. His ability to cover large areas and play various roles makes him valuable.
9. Igor Thiago (Brentford)
Igor Thiago has become a vital striker for Brentford, stepping up after previous forwards left. His strength and aerial skill let him dominate defenders and create chances. So far in 2025/2026, he netted 19 Premier League goals, proving reliable. His presence brings a strong aerial threat that suits Brentford’s direct attack.
8. Rayan Cherki (Manchester City)
Since joining Manchester City last summer, Rayan Cherki has impressed with his creativity. A smooth playmaker, he dribbles well and uses both feet effectively. This season, he has tallied eight assists and three goals, helping City win the Carabao Cup recently. His vision adds unpredictability to City's offense.
7. William Saliba (Arsenal)
William Saliba remains a defensive rock for Arsenal, alongside Gabriel Magalhães. His calmness and excellent reading of the game let Arsenal keep a high defensive line confidently. This season, Saliba helped secure 11 clean sheets. His quick recovery and strength make him tough to beat in one-on-one duels.
6. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Erling Haaland continues to be a dominant striker, even sharing duties with star teammate Antoine Semenyo. He leads Manchester City attack with frightening consistency. In 2025/2026, Haaland scored 22 goals and assisted seven times. His physicality and movement exploit defenders’ mistakes, cementing his place among the best.
5. David Raya (Arsenal)
David Raya has been the Premier League’s most consistent goalkeeper over the past three seasons. His shot-stopping and distribution have been vital for Arsenal’s defense. Raya tops the Golden Glove race with 15 clean sheets this season, aiming for a third title.
4. Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City)
After moving to Manchester City in January, Antoine Semenyo quickly reached elite status. His explosive speed and direct runs complement Haaland perfectly. Semenyo has scored 14 goals and made four assists, transferring his Bournemouth form to City. His ability to break through defenses is crucial for Pep Guardiola’s tactics.
3. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
Bruno Fernandes remains the driving force and captain in Manchester United midfield. Known for relentless effort and creating chances, he leads the league in scoring opportunities created this season. Fernandes has eight goals and 16 assists, on track to shatter the Premier League assist record.
2. Declan Rice (Arsenal)
Declan Rice is seen as the world’s top defensive midfielder thanks to his work rate. He shields Arsenal’s defense and starts attacks with precise passing. This season, Rice has maintained good passing accuracy and tackles, adding four goals and five assists.
1. Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal)
Gabriel Magalhães stands out as one of the Premier League’s best players with his commanding role in Arsenal’s defense. Alongside Saliba and Raya, he has helped build the league’s tightest defensive unit, keeping the most clean sheets. This season, Gabriel scored three goals and assisted four times. His aggression and aerial strength underpin Arsenal’s top defensive record in Europe.
