The 2025-26 Premier League season has concluded, with Arsenal claiming the title and a host of individuals earning recognition from football writers covering the campaign.
David Raya emerged as a strong contender for player of the season, winning the Golden Glove for a third consecutive year with 19 clean sheets throughout Arsenal’s title-winning campaign.
Declan Rice and Bruno Fernandes split opinion among writers. Rice, described as the heartbeat of Arsenal’s charge, delivered energy, determination and crucial set-piece delivery across the season’s defining months.
Fernandes drew significant backing despite Manchester United’s turbulent campaign. Jonathan Liew argued that excelling in a flawed team, elevating and inspiring them, made Fernandes the standout player by distance.
Mikel Arteta claimed multiple votes for manager of the season after ending his near-miss reputation. Special recognition also went to Andoni Iraola, who guided Bournemouth to sixth place and European football despite significant player sales.
Régis Le Bris drew considerable support after steering Sunderland into the Europa League in their first season back in the Premier League, a feat few predicted when the club gained promotion via the playoffs.
Granit Xhaka dominated the best signing category. Writers consistently praised the Switzerland captain, signed for an initial £13m from Bayer Leverkusen, for his leadership and quality throughout Sunderland’s remarkable campaign.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, signed by Leeds on a free transfer, also received strong recognition after contributing 14 league goals during their survival push and providing a crucial run of six consecutive games with a goal.
Chelsea and Liverpool attracted the most criticism for underperformance. Liverpool spent close to £450m on new signings following their 2025 title success, yet Arne Slot’s squad struggled collectively throughout the entire campaign.
The Manchester United 4-4 Bournemouth match at Old Trafford in December drew widespread votes for match of the season, described as an eight-goal fever dream where defending seemed optional and momentum shifted constantly.
VAR continued to frustrate writers across the board. Multiple contributors cited confusing decisions, excessive delays and the handling of grappling at corners as major negatives undermining the experience of watching Premier League football.
Antoine Semenyo scored 21 goals across the season, including the FA Cup winner at Wembley for Bournemouth, before joining Manchester City in January and continuing his impressive form for the remainder of the campaign.
Ruben Amorim drew heavy criticism for his tenure at Manchester United. His decision to give Kobbie Mainoo zero league starts before his January sacking was highlighted as symbolic of a deeply misguided managerial appointment.
Michael Carrick received praise for rebuilding United’s fortunes after Amorim’s departure, switching to a 4-2-3-1 system and guiding the club to third place and Champions League qualification ahead of the new season.
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