The Premier League season has concluded, and Guardian football writers have reflected on the best and worst moments of the campaign. From standout players and managers to memorable goals and matches, here are their selections.
Best Player
Goalkeepers rarely receive top honors, but David Raya was instrumental in Arsenal's title triumph, winning the Golden Glove for the third consecutive year with 19 clean sheets. Declan Rice and Bruno Fernandes were the standout outfield players. Ed Aarons noted, "Raya played an integral role in Arsenal finally getting over the line." John Brewin praised Fernandes, stating, "He was a pleasure to watch once Michael Carrick freed him up." Yara El-Shaboury highlighted Rice, saying, "The midfielder spent the season fuelled entirely by pressure, becoming the heartbeat of Arsenal's title charge." Ben Fisher selected Antoine Semenyo, who scored 21 goals for Bournemouth and Manchester City, including the FA Cup winner. Other nominees included Elliot Anderson, John McGinn, and Jérémy Doku.
Best Manager
Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth secured sixth place and European football, but Mikel Arteta's title win with Arsenal earned him top marks. Ed Aarons noted, "Arteta has transformed the entire club and done it his way." John Brewin praised Iraola for "the most watchable football." Régis Le Bris guided Sunderland to the Europa League after promotion, while Unai Emery transformed Aston Villa into trophy winners and Champions League qualifiers. Michael Carrick revitalized Manchester United after taking over from Ruben Amorim, leading them to third place and Champions League qualification.
Best Goal
Dominik Szoboszlai's 35-yard free-kick against Arsenal was a standout, but Kaoru Mitoma's volley against Tottenham, Harrison Reed's late equalizer against Liverpool, and Emi Buendía's winner at Tottenham also impressed. Rayan Cherki's dribble through Arsenal's defense for Manchester City was hailed as a moment of brilliance. Max Dowman's goal against Everton was celebrated for its euphoria, while Antoine Semenyo's solo run against Liverpool showcased his lethal finishing.
Best Match
Several matches delivered drama, including Liverpool 1-2 Manchester City, where Szoboszlai's free-kick was followed by a City comeback. Manchester United 4-4 Bournemouth was described as an "eight-goal fever dream." Fulham 4-5 Manchester City featured a near-comeback, while Everton 3-3 Manchester City saw late drama. Crystal Palace 3-3 Bournemouth had VAR controversy and a Jean-Philippe Mateta hat-trick. Leeds 3-3 Liverpool featured six goals and a 96th-minute equalizer.
Best Signing
Granit Xhaka was widely praised for his leadership at Sunderland, costing just £13 million. Senne Lammens brought stability to Manchester United's defense, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin's free transfer to Leeds proved crucial. Viktor Gyökeres added a new dimension to Arsenal's attack, and Eli Junior Kroupi impressed at Bournemouth.
Biggest Flop
Liam Delap struggled at Chelsea, scoring only one goal. Alexander Isak's £125 million move to Liverpool was marred by injury and underwhelming performances. Chelsea as a whole finished 10th despite high spending. Liverpool's squad collectively underperformed, and Ruben Amorim's tenure at Manchester United was deemed a misstep.
Biggest Gripe
Writers criticized the congested schedule, VAR inconsistencies, and the influence of wealthy owners. The handball law and refereeing announcements were also points of contention. Sir Jim Ratcliffe's controversial comments drew ire, while the lack of spontaneity due to VAR was a recurring theme.
