Eight nominees but only one can win. Who gets your vote as the BEST performer of the campaign?
The Premier League has officially opened voting for the 2025/26 EA SPORTS Player of the Season, inviting supporters around the world to decide which footballer defined the campaign through consistency, influence and decisive moments.
The annual award, one of English football’s most prestigious individual honours, recognises the player whose performances shaped the narrative of the season whether through goals, leadership, defensive resilience or match winning impact across nine demanding months of competition.
This year’s shortlist reflects the changing rhythm of the league itself: established global stars stand alongside players who have quietly elevated their teams beyond expectation.
Among the nominees is Erling Haaland, whose relentless scoring form once again placed him at the centre of Manchester City’s title push. The Norwegian forward remains one of the most feared attackers in European football, combining physical dominance with remarkable efficiency in front of goal.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes also earns recognition after another season defined by creativity and leadership. Fernandes’ influence stretched beyond statistics, often dictating tempo and providing decisive moments during critical fixtures.
Arsenal’s defensive pillar Gabriel Magalhães joins the shortlist following a campaign marked by defensive stability and aerial dominance, underlining how modern Player of the Season races increasingly reward defensive excellence alongside attacking brilliance.
Midfield authority is represented by Declan Rice, whose performances highlighted endurance, tactical intelligence and control in high pressure matches. His role as both protector and playmaker showcased the evolution of midfield responsibilities in the modern Premier League era.
Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest’s standout performer Morgan Gibbs White receives nomination recognition after emerging as one of the season’s most influential creative forces, while Brentford striker Igor Thiago earned attention for his attacking contribution and adaptability in England’s top flight.
Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo also features on the list, rewarded for a campaign that combined pace, direct attacking play and key goals that proved vital for his club’s momentum throughout the season.
Completing the shortlist is Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, whose consistent performances between the posts highlighted the growing appreciation for goalkeepers in season-defining conversations. Raya’s shot stopping and composure under pressure reinforced how defensive reliability can shape a team’s ambitions just as strongly as attacking flair.
How the Winner Will Be Decided
The final result will be determined through a combined voting system. Supporters’ votes will be merged with selections from a panel of football experts and the captains of Premier League clubs, ensuring both fan sentiment and professional evaluation influence the outcome.
Voting remains open for a limited period via the league’s official platform, with the winner expected to be announced shortly after the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.
A Season Defined by Balance
Unlike previous years dominated by a single narrative, the 2025/26 campaign has been characterised by balance tactical evolution, rising young talents and the continued excellence of established stars.
The diversity of this year’s nominees reflects that shift. Attackers, midfield generals, defenders and a goalkeeper all feature prominently, illustrating how success in modern football increasingly depends on collective influence rather than individual brilliance alone.
For supporters, the vote offers more than just a choice of favourite player. It represents a reflection on the moments that shaped the season late winners, defensive masterclasses, leadership under pressure and performances that turned ordinary weekends into unforgettable football memories.
As the campaign approaches its conclusion, fans now hold the final say in deciding who will join the long list of Premier League legends crowned EA SPORTS Player of the Season.
