Arsenal, Man City players dominate PFA Premier League team of the year

The 2025/26 PFA Premier League Team of the Year has been announced, with Arsenal and Manchester City claiming nine out of the eleven spots. The player-voted lineup highlights a significant shift in power within English football, with Arsenal's defense and Manchester City's squad depth receiving widespread acclaim from their professional peers.

Arsenal's near-impenetrable defense, led by goalkeeper David Raya, center-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, and fullback Jurriën Timber, earned all five defensive positions. Midfielder Declan Rice was also selected for his vital contribution to Arsenal's Premier League success. Manchester City countered Arsenal's strong defensive line by securing four midfield and attacking positions.

City's breakout star Nico O’Reilly, who also won the PFA Young Player of the Year award, earned a spot in the defense. Up the pitch, creative player Rayan Cherki was recognized, while Erling Haaland and Antoine Semenyo spearheaded the lethal forward line. Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United and Igor Thiago of Brentford were the only other players to make the eleven, with Fernandes earning the PFA Men's Players' Player of the Year award and Thiago receiving commendation for his goal-scoring form.

The star-studded lineup underscores a season dominated by a fierce rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester City, showcasing that while individual brilliance shines across the league, these two teams continue to set the standard for elite football in England.