The race for the prestigious 2025/26 EA SPORTS Player of the Season award in the Premier League has officially begun, with eight standout performers nominated after delivering exceptional campaigns for their respective clubs.
Fans across the world now have the opportunity to vote for the player they believe made the biggest impact during the season, with public votes set to be combined with selections from a panel of football experts before the final winner is announced next week.
This year’s shortlist features a mix of experienced superstars, emerging leaders, elite defenders, and prolific goalscorers who have shaped one of the most competitive Premier League seasons in recent years.
Arsenal Trio Lead Title-Chasing Campaign
Title contenders Arsenal F.C. dominate the nominations list with three players earning recognition for their crucial contributions to the club’s impressive campaign.
Gabriel Magalhães
Brazilian defender Gabriel has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defensive solidity throughout the season. Operating at the heart of the backline, he has helped the Gunners record the league’s best defensive numbers, conceding just 26 goals so far.
Beyond his defensive work, Gabriel has also contributed offensively with three goals and four assists. His composure on the ball, physical dominance, and ability to read the game have made him one of the league’s top defenders this season.
David Raya
Spanish goalkeeper David Raya has once again proven why he is considered one of the finest shot-stoppers in English football. Raya has registered 18 clean sheets and secured the Golden Glove award for the third consecutive season.
His crucial saves in high-pressure moments have been vital to Arsenal’s title push, with several standout performances helping the North London club maintain consistency at the top of the table.
Declan Rice
Declan Rice has continued to establish himself as one of Europe’s elite midfielders. The England international has been instrumental in Arsenal’s balance between attack and defense, excelling in multiple tactical roles throughout the campaign.
Rice has contributed goals, assists, defensive recoveries, and leadership, especially during periods when key teammates were unavailable. His ability to dictate tempo and control matches has made him one of Arsenal’s most influential players this season.
Bruno Fernandes Inspires Manchester United Revival
Bruno Fernandes has enjoyed one of the finest seasons of his career for Manchester United.
The Portuguese playmaker has recorded eight goals and an astonishing 19 assists in 33 league appearances, putting him within touching distance of the Premier League’s single-season assist record.
Fernandes has been the creative engine behind United’s strong push back into UEFA Champions League qualification places. His leadership, vision, passing range, and ability to produce decisive moments have transformed United into one of the league’s most dangerous attacking sides this season.
His performances also earned him another Player of the Month award, drawing him level with club legend Cristiano Ronaldo for the most monthly awards won by a Manchester United player.
Haaland Continues Goal-Scoring Dominance
Erling Haaland once again demonstrated why he remains one of world football’s deadliest forwards.
The Norwegian striker has scored 26 league goals and added eight assists for Manchester City F.C., placing him firmly in contention for another Golden Boot title.
Haaland’s relentless consistency has been remarkable, particularly during a blistering stretch earlier in the campaign where he scored repeatedly across domestic and European competitions.
He also reached another major milestone this season, becoming one of the fastest players in Premier League history to hit 100 goals contributions, further cementing his growing legacy in English football.
Morgan Gibbs-White Shines for Nottingham Forest
Morgan Gibbs-White earned another nomination after stepping up as the leading figure for Nottingham Forest F.C..
With key attackers unavailable for parts of the season, Gibbs-White carried much of Forest’s creative burden, producing 13 goals and several match-winning displays.
The midfielder’s performances in April were especially impressive, helping Forest secure Premier League survival while earning his first Player of the Month recognition.
Antoine Semenyo Impresses After Manchester City Switch
Antoine Semenyo has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign split between two clubs.
After excelling during the first half of the season with Bournemouth, Semenyo secured a January move to Manchester City and adapted immediately to Pep Guardiola’s tactical system.
The versatile Ghanaian attacker contributed goals and assists while playing across several attacking positions, becoming an important weapon in City’s pursuit of silverware.
Igor Thiago Emerges as Brentford’s Goal Machine
Igor Thiago has become one of the surprise stars of the season for Brentford F.C..
Following an injury-affected debut year, the Brazilian striker exploded into form this season, scoring 22 Premier League goals and establishing himself among the division’s elite forwards.
His physical presence, finishing ability, and consistency in front of goal helped Brentford remain competitive throughout the campaign.
Fans Set to Decide Winner
Voting for the award remains open until Monday, 18 May, with supporters worldwide encouraged to choose the player they believe delivered the most outstanding performances during the 2025/26 season.
The eventual winner will join an elite list of Premier League stars who have previously claimed the prestigious individual honour.
With multiple players enjoying exceptional campaigns, the final result is expected to generate major debate among football fans globally.