Haaland, Rice, Semenyo: Who is your Premier League Player of the Year? - ESPN

ESPN

by Multiple contributors

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Premier League's 2025-26 season is reaching its climax, with the title race tightly contested between Arsenal and Manchester City, and the battle for Champions League qualification still up for grabs. Amidst this excitement, the debate over who deserves the Premier League Player of the Year award remains unresolved, with several standout performers making strong cases. Erling Haaland of Manchester City and Declan Rice of Arsenal are leading contenders, each showcasing their unique impact on their respective teams. Erling Haaland has been a force to be reckoned with this season, leading Manchester City's charge for the title. Despite a relatively quiet period recently, his 22 league goals place him at the top of the scoring charts. What sets Haaland apart this year is his evolution into a more well-rounded player, with seven assists and a remarkable work rate. His performance against Newcastle, where he recorded 43 touches, made 12 duels, and contributed to City's win, highlights his growing influence beyond just goal-scoring. Manager Pep Guardiola has praised Haaland's generosity and dedication, underscoring

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/26/2026