The Premier League season is reaching its climax and with it the Player of the Year award. As Arsenal widen their lead at the top of the table, several potential title contenders have emerged. Declan Rice and Gabriel are outstanding and are among the bookmakers’ favorites to win individual awards.
But it’s not just the Gunners duo who have a chance to finish the season with honours. Manchester United captain and creator Bruno Fernandes has guided the Red Devils to the top three under Ruben Amorim, a remarkable turnaround from last season’s bottom-half finish and mediocrity since then.
Including last season’s winner Mohamed Salah, 11 players have won the Premier League trophy with their respective clubs in the year they won the award, and that percentage has increased in recent years.
However, voting is usually held before the end of the season, and although Arsenal currently lead the title race, there is no guarantee they will finish top of the table.
And Manchester City have some candidates of their own and would be particularly popular if they can overtake Mikel Arteta’s side in the final few games.
Erling Haaland remains the league’s top scorer and if City are to put pressure on Arsenal, it will be through his goals.
However, a second attacking threat has emerged since January under manager Josep Guardiola in Antoine Semenyo.
The Ghanaian, who joined from Bournemouth for £65m, started the season with great results on the south coast and continued his form at the Etihad.
However, it remains to be seen whether they can surpass the likes of Rice and Gabriel, who have been influential in turning Arsenal into title contenders.
