The 2025/26 Premier League season has concluded, and Opta's supercomputer has released its official Team of the Season based on statistical performance. Arsenal ended a 22-year title drought, while Manchester City, despite not retaining the trophy, had several players recognized.
Arsenal's Defensive Dominance
Arsenal's title-winning campaign was anchored by a formidable defense, earning four spots in the best XI. Goalkeeper David Raya led the league with 19 clean sheets, becoming only the third Spanish goalkeeper to win the Premier League. Center-backs Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba were instrumental, with Gabriel contributing seven goal involvements from set-pieces as Arsenal scored a record 19 goals from corners. Declan Rice completed the Arsenal contingent, excelling in set-piece delivery, ball progression, and chance creation.
Manchester City Stars Shine
Despite finishing second, Manchester City players delivered elite performances. Matheus Nunes reinvented himself as a full-back, leading all defenders in attacking metrics. Rayan Cherki, in his debut season, registered 12 assists and became a creative force. Erling Haaland won the Golden Boot with 27 goals, leading in shots, expected goals, and match-winning strikes.
Bruno Fernandes' Record-Breaking Season
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes broke the Premier League assist record with 21 assists and created 136 chances, far exceeding any other player. He also topped metrics for through balls, passes into the box, and expected assists.
Other Notable Selections
Liverpool's Dominik Szoboszlai impressed with creativity and free-kick deliveries. Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Bournemouth's Adrien Truffert rounded out the XI after outstanding campaigns outside the traditional top clubs.
Opta Supercomputer's Premier League Team of the Season
- Goalkeeper: David Raya (Arsenal)
- Defenders: Matheus Nunes (Manchester City), William Saliba (Arsenal), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Adrien Truffert (Bournemouth)
- Midfielders: Declan Rice (Arsenal), Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)
- Attackers: Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
The 2025/26 season will be remembered for record-breaking performances and the emergence of new stars, cementing its place as one of the most entertaining campaigns in Premier League history.
