PFA Player of the Year: six finalists, Mohamed Salah's successor to be revealed this Tuesday

The suspense is reaching its peak in England. The winner of the PFA Players’ Player of the Year 2025-2026, an award decided by the professional players themselves, will be announced this Tuesday evening in Manchester. The PFA Awards ceremony marks the 53rd edition of the event.

Many players left their mark on this Premier League season, but only six have received enough votes to make the final shortlist: Bruno Fernandes, Declan Rice, Rayan Cherki, David Raya, Erling Haaland and Gabriel Magalhães.

The shortlist highlights the diversity of profiles being recognized. Manchester City is represented by Cherki and Haaland, while Arsenal boasts three contenders with Rice, Raya, and Gabriel. Bruno Fernandes stands alone as Manchester United's sole nominee.

Fernandes and Rice, the two leading favorites

The battle appears especially tight between Bruno Fernandes and Declan Rice. The Portuguese playmaker delivered an outstanding season for Manchester United, setting a new Premier League record with 21 assists in a single campaign.

On the other side, Rice was a driving force for Arsenal, the Premier League champions, establishing himself as one of the most influential midfielders in the league. Several pundits have even hailed him as the standout player of the season.

Cherki, Haaland, Raya and Gabriel could spring a surprise

Having joined Manchester City, Rayan Cherki also features among the six finalists after an eye-catching debut campaign in England. He is joined by his teammate Erling Haaland, who remains one of the league’s top attacking threats.

Arsenal can also count on David Raya and Gabriel Magalhães, further proof of the Gunners’ collective dominance throughout the 2025-2026 season.

The trophy carries special significance as it is voted for by the professional footballers themselves. Mohamed Salah, the 2025 winner, claimed this honor for the third time.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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