Ian Darkes Premier League...

Ian DarkeDec 28, 2025, 06:00 AM ET
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While Christmas doesn’t bring awards in the Premier League, it doesn’t stop us from enjoying some holiday cheer by selecting our team of the season thus far.

Here are the standout players who have made the biggest impact.

Goalkeeper

Gianluigi Donnarumma (Manchester City):
The highly decorated Italian goalkeeper has been an outstanding signing since joining from Paris Saint-Germain last summer. His crucial saves helped Luis Enrique’s team clinch the Champions League title. Despite City having already secured James Trafford as their No. 1, they couldn’t pass up the opportunity for Donnarumma. He has established himself as a reliable last line of defense, consistently delivering spectacular saves that thwart opposing strikers.

His emotional embrace with manager Pep Guardiola after a recent match against West Ham United showcased his value to City’s campaign across all competitions.

Defenders

Reece James (Chelsea):
James has displayed exceptional skill and leadership, whether playing as a right-back or in central midfield for a young Chelsea side still finding its confidence. His stunning free kick at Newcastle just before Christmas showcased his ability to strike the ball beautifully.

Having overcome past injury struggles, if he maintains fitness, he is set to be England‘s starting right-back at the World Cup.

Dan Ballard (Sunderland):
Ballard embodies the spirit of Sunderland, a club that’s been one of the feel-good stories of the season. His fearless tackling and aerial prowess have played a significant role in keeping the promoted team competitive for a potential top-six finish. After loan spells at various clubs, he has now emerged as a Premier League standout, defying expectations.

– O’Hanlon: Premier League Future Power Rankings: Projections for all 20 teams
– Schoenfeld: The revival of Sunderland, the club and the city
– Olley: Gyökeres’ transfer was meant to change Arsenal. What happened?

Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace):
Guéhi was on the brink of a transfer to Liverpool last summer, but manager Oliver Glasner denied the move. As a result, he stayed at Selhurst Park, consistently delivering polished performances. Arguably England’s finest defender, it’s only a matter of time before he secures a transfer, either in January or as a free agent next summer.

Nico O’Reilly (Manchester City):
The talented 20-year-old academy graduate has impressed since transitioning from central midfield to left-back, where Pep Guardiola has relied on him regularly. When he made his debut for England, he appeared as if he had been a part of the national setup for years. Humble and unassuming, he navigates through matches with finesse.

Midfielders

Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool):
Amid Liverpool’s turbulent season, Szoboszlai has emerged as the standout player. Even when playing out of position as an emergency right-back, he has been exceptional. His long-range free-kick winner against Arsenal in August is already a contender for goal of the season. His performances have been nothing short of remarkable, especially considering he was once thought to be under threat of losing his position following the summer acquisition of Florian Wirtz. Now, he’s indispensable.

Declan Rice (Arsenal):
Recently, Everton manager David Moyes praised Rice as “the best midfield player in the world” at the moment. While players like Vitinha at PSG may disagree, Rice’s energy, dynamism, and overall skills make him invaluable to both Arsenal and England. It’s hard to find a manager who wouldn’t want him on their team.

Granit Xhaka (Sunderland):
A remarkable signing, Xhaka has become a key figure at Sunderland, driving the team’s standards. His tenacity suggests he would give his all even in a casual kickaround, insisting on the same level of intensity from his teammates.

Opting for Sunderland over more glamorous clubs, he relishes the challenge of helping a storied team redefine expectations.

Attackers

Bukayo Saka (Arsenal):
Saka consistently creates opportunities, finds the back of the net, and is a constant threat on the right flank for Arsenal. His ability to break through defenses makes him a pivotal player in the Gunners’ title pursuit. Maintaining his fitness will be crucial for Mikel Arteta’s aspirations.

Erling Haaland (Manchester City):
With 19 Premier League goals by Christmas, Haaland equaled a record set three decades ago by Andy Cole of Newcastle United. He is undeniably the most lethal striker in England, boasting an astonishing conversion rate—his misses are so surprising that they stand out. His exceptional form makes Norway a formidable side to watch in the World Cup.

Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa):
Rogers is positioning himself as a challenger for Jude Bellingham‘s place in the England squad. Having joined Villa for a modest £15 million from Middlesbrough, he has blossomed into a game-changer, highlighted by his two stunning goals that secured victory over Manchester United. Rogers showcases creativity, great movement, technical precision, and a natural scoring ability.