The Premier League has unveiled its eight-man shortlist for the 2025/26 Player of the Season award, with Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice and Manchester City striker Erling Haaland among the nominees.
Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White also made the shortlist after another impressive campaign that has strengthened his chances of making England’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Arsenal dominated the nominations with three players included following the club’s strong push for a first league title since 2004.
Defender Gabriel Magalhaes earned recognition after helping Arsenal record the best defensive record in the division, while goalkeeper David Raya was shortlisted after keeping 18 clean sheets to secure a third consecutive Golden Glove award.
Rice was also nominated after another influential season in midfield for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Manchester City striker Haaland made the list as he chases a third Premier League Golden Boot in four seasons, having already scored 26 league goals this term.
Bruno Fernandes was recognised after producing another standout campaign for Manchester United, registering eight goals and 19 assists to help the club secure Champions League qualification.
The Portuguese midfielder is now close to matching the Premier League single-season assist record jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
Fernandes also equalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester United record after winning his sixth Premier League Player of the Month award earlier this season.
Gibbs-White secured a second consecutive nomination after scoring 13 goals and providing four assists for Nottingham Forest.
Seven of his goals have come since March, including a hat-trick against Burnley, as Forest moved clear of the relegation zone.
The midfielder’s performances have reportedly placed him under consideration for England manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of this summer’s World Cup.
The shortlist also includes Antoine Semenyo, who impressed following his move from Bournemouth to Manchester City during the January transfer window.
Full list of Premier League Player of the Season nominees:
Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)
Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest)
Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
David Raya (Arsenal)
Declan Rice (Arsenal)
