As the 2025/26 Premier League campaign approaches its closing stages, the contest for the league’s top individual honour appears to be narrowing to a battle between a prolific striker and the influential midfielder driving the league leaders.
With Arsenal and Manchester City competing closely for the Premier League title, the eventual champions could play a major role in determining who wins the award.
Below are the 10 players currently tipped to claim the 2026 Premier League Best Player award:
1. Declan Rice (Arsenal)
Rice is presently the leading favourite for the award. The midfielder has evolved from a defensive shield into the “beating heart” of Mikel Arteta’s team. His influence on set-pieces and his league-best progressive carries (310) have made him a key figure for an Arsenal side chasing its first league title in more than 20 years.
Key Stat: Leads all midfielders in final third entries (8.65 per 90).
2. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
The Norwegian striker continues to dominate the Golden Boot race. After what many described as a “down” season by his own high standards, Haaland has returned to his lethal scoring form, posting statistics that could make the award his regardless of where City finish.
Key Stat: 22 goals in 30 appearances; 0.82 goals per 90.
3. Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal)
Arsenal’s title ambitions have largely been built on their strong defensive performances. Gabriel has stood out as one of the most impactful defenders in the league, combining aerial strength with a habit of scoring decisive goals from set pieces.
Key Stat: Part of a defence with a league-high 15 clean sheets.
4. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
Although Manchester United currently sit third, Fernandes has been the most creative player in the league statistically. He is pursuing the all-time single-season assist record (20) and leads several creative categories, including big chances created.
Key Stat: 16 assists and 92 chances created (League High).
5. Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City)
Semenyo has emerged as one of the season’s biggest surprises. Following an $84 million transfer from Bournemouth in January, he has quickly made an impact at the Etihad Stadium. His February Player of the Month award confirmed his rise as a late challenger for the league’s top individual prize.
Key Stat: 15 goals total this season; rapid integration into Pep Guardiola’s system.
6. Igor Thiago (Brentford)
The Brentford striker has been outstanding, ranking second only to Haaland among the league’s top scorers. His performances have helped keep Brentford in the race for European qualification despite the club’s mid-table status.
Key Stat: 18 goals; 6/7 penalty conversion rate.
7. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Saka continues to be one of the Premier League’s most influential wingers. Even though his goal numbers are slightly lower than in previous seasons, his “gravity” on the right flank creates opportunities for teammates like Rice and Martin Ødegaard.
Key Stat: 0.56 big chances created per 90 minutes.
8. Moisés Caicedo (Chelsea)
Chelsea’s improvement this season has been largely attributed to Caicedo’s commanding presence in midfield. The Ecuadorian has lived up to expectations following his high-value transfer, ranking among the league leaders in interceptions and tackles.
Key Stat: 2.2 interceptions per 90; 9 yellow cards (reflecting his high-intensity role).
9. Granit Xhaka (Sunderland)
One of the most remarkable narratives of the campaign has been Xhaka’s return to the Premier League with Sunderland. At 33, he has been a “revelation,” helping guide the newly promoted side into the top half of the table.
Key Stat: Highest pass completion rate for a non-top-six midfielder.
10. Rayan Cherki (Manchester City)
The French attacking midfielder has delivered the creativity Manchester City needed during Kevin De Bruyne’s injury absences. His connection with Haaland has proved highly productive, and he currently ranks second in the league for assists.
Key Stat: 8 assists and leads the league in xA per 90 ($0.46$).