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

Arsenal and Manchester City have solidified their dominance in English football, claiming nine of the eleven positions in the 2025/26 Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Premier League Team of the Year. Announced at the Manchester Opera House, the player-voted lineup reflects a significant power shift in the top flight, acknowledging Mikel Arteta's tactical acumen and Pep Guardiola's squad depth.

Arsenal's formidable defense was heavily represented, securing four of the five defensive spots. Goalkeeper David Raya was selected, protected by center-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães. Fullback Jurriën Timber completed Arsenal's defensive dominance, underscoring the team's reputation as the league's most feared defensive block. Declan Rice also earned a midfield spot for his contributions to Arsenal's league success.

Manchester City countered Arsenal's defensive strength by sweeping the midfield and attacking echelons. City's emerging talent, Nico O’Reilly, who also received the PFA Men’s Young Player of the Year award, was surprisingly voted into the defensive unit by his peers. Further upfield, City's creative force was recognized with a place for Rayan Cherki, while Erling Haaland and Antoine Semenyo formed a potent forward line.

Only two players from clubs outside the Arsenal-Manchester City duopoly managed to break into the prestigious team. Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes secured a midfield position, validating his individual brilliance throughout the season as he also claimed the PFA Men’s Players’ Player of the Year award. Brentford's striker Igor Thiago, recognized for his remarkable goal-scoring form, earned a spot in the forward line.

The star-studded lineup highlights a season defined by a relentless two-horse race between Arsenal and Manchester City. While individual brilliance was evident across the league, these two clubs have clearly set the standard for elite football in England.