Arsenal won the league. Sunderland gate crashed Europe. Bruno Fernandes broke records nobody thought were breakable. What a season this has been — and now it’s time to hand out the flowers.
Based on average ratings across the campaign, here’s the definitive Premier League Team of the Season. And yes, your favourite player probably got snubbed. Sorry not sorry.
In Goal — Donnarumma (Man City)
Fifteen clean sheets in his debut Premier League season. The big Italian walked into the Etihad and made himself at home immediately. Pep’s leaving, but at least he left them with a proper goalkeeper.
At The Back — Van Dijk, Senesi, Guehi
Liverpool had a nightmare season but Van Dijk somehow kept his individual standards immaculate. Six goals from centre back too — someone tell him he’s not a striker.
Senesi is the unsung hero of this entire list. Bournemouth quietly had a fantastic season and this Argentine was the heartbeat of their defence. He’s leaving in the summer and honestly whoever gets him is stealing a player.
Guehi played for two clubs this season and was brilliant for both. Make that make sense.
In Midfield — Saka, Rice, Xhaka, Guimaraes, Cherki, Fernandes
This midfield is genuinely unfair. Saka was unplayable for Arsenal all season — 50 dribbles, 56 key passes and a title medal to show for it.
Rice was the engine behind Arsenal’s first championship in 22 years. Four goals, five assists, and set piece delivery so good it had opposition managers having nightmares on Thursday nights.
Xhaka at Sunderland was one of the stories of the season. Walked into a newly promoted club, got handed the captaincy almost immediately, and dragged them into European football through sheer force of will and experience. Magnificent.
Guimaraes carried Newcastle on his back all season despite the club around him being a complete mess. Nine goals, five assists and 43 tackles — the Brazilian does absolutely everything.
And then there’s Cherki. Manchester City’s signing of the season without a shadow of a doubt. Twelve assists, 51 dribbles and the kind of footwork that makes you put your phone down and actually watch. A joy.
Up Front — Bruno Fernandes, Haaland
Bruno first because he deserves it. 30 goal contributions. 21 assists — a new Premier League record. Player of the Season by a mile. Doing all of this while simultaneously dragging Manchester United to third place. Generational performance.
And Haaland — 27 goals, eight assists, 35 total contributions. The most of any player in the division. He does it every single season and somehow it still feels like we’re not appreciating it enough.
What a team. What a season. Argue with the wall. ⚽🔥