Premier League Player Rankings for 2026-27

Determining the best player in the Premier League is a challenging query. The Athletic is attempting to answer this by introducing Premier League Player Rankings for the 2026-27 season. These rankings will consider form, data, and expert observations by Phil Hay and Tim Spiers.

Our list will receive updates every month. We begin in August, reflecting on last season’s performances and future expectations for these talented players. The absence of Mohamed Salah and Rodri has shifted some unexpected names into the top 10.

Despite departures, the league’s depth is evident. A £55million midfielder with a Premier League and World Cup victory isn’t on the list, nor is a £73million Manchester United striker. There’s also a World Cup-winning goalkeeper who might not play if he doesn’t transfer.

If the rankings provoke disagreement, feel free to comment. Evaluate the list and suggest who should be excluded instead, understanding the competition’s intensity.

Right, to the rankings!

Top 50 Premier League Players

50. Jordan Pickford (Everton)

Pickford stands out as a consistent goalkeeper both in England and internationally. His dynamic personality contributes significantly to Everton’s dressing room, and his ability to perform under pressure is remarkable.

49. Iliman Ndiaye (Everton)

Ndiaye performed exceptionally last season, completing 73 dribbles, second only to Jeremy Doku. His unpredictability and firm control make him a prominent attacker, capable of playing centrally or wide.

48. Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)

Rashford, after a turbulent period at Manchester United, succeeded during his stint at Barcelona. He won a Liga title, impressed in the Champions League, and scored 14 across competitions, raising questions about his current form.

47. Alex Scott (Bournemouth)

Scott was pivotal in Bournemouth’s record finishing season, earning Player of the Year honors. Known for his proactive style, he is bound for further achievements, potentially leading to lucrative transfers.

46. Youri Tielemans (Manchester United)

Acquired for £35million, Tielemans brings creativity and flair to Manchester United. His precision and technique offer a new dimension to United’s attack strategy.

45. Matheus Cunha (Manchester United)

Cunha transitioned from a strategic role at Wolverhampton to a potential game-changer at United. His challenge lies in finding his best fit within the attacking line.

44. Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)

Despite Tottenham’s struggles, Van de Ven remains a promising talent. He offers speed and more, poised to have a revelatory season.

43. Eberechi Eze (Arsenal)

Eze, a joy to watch, clinched a title with Arsenal and remains one to watch this season. His ability to create game-changing moments is highly regarded.

42. Rayan (Bournemouth)

Rayan’s arrival from Vasco da Gama has sparked interest. His potential, validated by a significant release clause, promises future stardom.

41. Mateus Fernandes (Tottenham Hotspur)

At 22, Fernandes has the potential to manage a Premier League team. Spurs capitalized on acquiring this versatile, technically gifted player.

40. Viktor Gyokeres (Arsenal)

Gyokeres, a potent goal-scorer, aims to increase his impact against top opponents after setting impressive records at Sporting CP.

39. Sandro Tonali (Tottenham Hotspur)

Tottenham’s serious transfer strategy involved picking Tonali from Newcastle. His capabilities fit well with Spurs’ objectives, enriching their lineup.

38. Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

Watkins has proved reliable for Villa with consistent goal-scoring figures. Despite limited World Cup play, his contribution to Villa is substantial.

37. Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)

Wharton’s exclusion from the World Cup was surprising. His intelligent play in midfield continues to shine, suggesting future valuation increases.

36. Bryan Mbeumo (Manchester United)

Mbeumo impressed after transferring from Brentford, affirming his energy and speed capabilities. His pace and attack intelligence add value at United.

35. Marc Guehi (Manchester City)

Guehi exemplifies a premier defender. His transfer saga with Liverpool highlights his significant value, promising leadership potential for England.

34. Phil Foden (Manchester City)

Foden faces a comeback year after injuries affected his performance. His ability to control games suggests potential improvement if he remains fit.

33. Igor Thiago (Brentford)

Thiago has excelled at Brentford, stepping up during team transitions and showcasing his tactical fit and goal-scoring prowess.

32. Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa)

Konsa’s quiet defense work and versatility in the backline boost Villa, drawing interest from top clubs for his stable performances.

31. Reece James (Chelsea)

James’ progress is marred by injuries, though his role is pivotal at Chelsea. His availability shows promise for further development as a standout right-back.

30. Gianluigi Donnarumma (Manchester City)

Donnarumma fits well at City, despite earlier passing concerns. His physical attributes and reflex saves strengthen their defense.

29. Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)

Mac Allister’s form dipped last season. However, potential revitalization in his role could reflect his championship-winning contributions again.

28. Ruben Dias (Manchester City)

Dias’ anticipation makes him a key City defender. Guardiola highly regards his problem-solving abilities, solidifying his essential role.

27. Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest)

Gibbs-White’s move to Forest showed his midfield prowess. Stability in his role could enhance the squad’s performance this season.

26. Granit Xhaka (Sunderland)

Xhaka left significant impact post-transfer. His leadership transformed Sunderland, making him a valuable figure sought by other top clubs.

25. Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)

Injuries limited Odegaard, yet he remains a key Arsenal figure. With fitness, he could boost team’s strategies and elevate their play.

24. Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool)

Ekitike impressed with Liverpool until injury intervened. Awaited return could benefit the squad during its crucial second half of the season.

23. Morgan Rogers (Chelsea)

Rogers’ high fee brings scrutiny, but his athletic and technical skills make him a promising addition to Chelsea this season.

22. Alisson (Liverpool)

Despite injury issues, Alisson remains Liverpool’s reliable goalkeeper. His contract extension attests to his enduring importance to the team.

21. Alexander Isak (Liverpool)

After struggling initially at Liverpool, Isak aims to replicate his past scoring success, capitalizing on his elegant and robust style.

20. Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace)

Sarr shined with Crystal Palace, becoming a top player outside ‘big six’ clubs. His World Cup and league performance make him a prime target.

19. Jeremy Doku (Manchester City)

Doku’s straightforward style of play needs refinement for more effectiveness. City anticipates improvement under coaching adjustments.

18. Joao Pedro (Chelsea)

Pedro succeeded in Chelsea, showing versatility as both a striker and playmaker, reaffirming his place as a premier forward.

17. Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea)

Fernandez’s dynamic play earns him a central role at Chelsea. His long-range goals and energetic presence make him vital in the team’s strategy.

16. Rayan Cherki (Manchester City)

Cherki’s playing style captivates fans. He remains a valuable player with flair, prioritizing creativity and impact over statistics.

15. David Raya (Arsenal)

Raya’s strong gameplay in goal has proven beneficial for Arsenal. He consistently delivers saves that secure precious points.

14. Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City)

Semenyo’s straightforward attack supported both Bournemouth and City. His diverse approach ensures challenges for opposition defenses.

13. Cole Palmer (Chelsea)

Palmer needs to enhance his assist record to meet expectations. Despite setbacks, his potential for resurgence exists in both league and branding.

12. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)

Van Dijk aims for a comeback following a challenging season. Better strategic defense pairing could aid Liverpool and lengthen his career.

11. Florian Wirtz (Liverpool)

Wirtz faced customary adjustment challenges. His vision and skills promise an effective future, pending strategic deployment.

10. Elliot Anderson (Manchester City)

Anderson’s significant transfer raises expectations. His skillset suggests potential to consistently contribute at elite levels.

9. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

Saka’s consistent performance for Arsenal makes him vital. Improvements in his goal statistics can ensure an even greater impact.

8. Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)

Szoboszlai’s imaginative approach and leadership stabilized Liverpool amidst tumult. His mastery of free kicks stands out.

7. Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)

Caicedo’s undervalued yet effective contribution fortifies Chelsea. His play enables offensive players to excel strategically.

6. Bruno Guimaraes (Arsenal)

Guimaraes’ transition from Newcastle signifies Arsenal’s strategic gain. His dynamic playstyle enhances the club’s competitive stature.

5. William Saliba (Arsenal)

Saliba’s injury challenges tested Arsenal’s mettle, yet his robust defense ensures he remains a top defensive player.

4. Gabriel (Arsenal)

Gabriel, a cornerstone of Arsenal, brings strategic advantages in defensive coordination, contributing to their success.

3. Declan Rice (Arsenal)

Rice’s contributions justified his transfer costs. His growth and leadership benefit Arsenal and extend to England’s national team.

2. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)

Fernandes excelled last season, breaking assist records. His role in United’s strategies proves indispensable, resisting overseas offers.

1. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)

Haaland’s scoring efficiency sets the standard in the league. His achievements promise further progression within top football circles.