Is success crucial? BBC Sport experts pick their player of the season

As the Premier League season reaches its climax, speculation mounts over who will claim the Player of the Season title. While the official announcement awaits late May, experts have already identified several standout candidates based on their performances. Arsenal’s dominance in the title race positions defenders and midfielders like Gabriel and Declan Rice as frontrunners. Yet, other players have also made significant impacts, such as Bruno Fernandes at Manchester United and emerging talents like Igor Thiago and Antoine Semenyo.

Over the past five seasons, the award has frequently gone to players from teams that did not win the league. This trend has been consistent, with Mohamed Salah as the most recent non-champion recipient. However, prior to that, the distribution was more balanced, with 11 non-Premier League winners and 10 champions’ players sharing the honor. This year, Arsenal’s prospects are strong, and Declan Rice has been instrumental in their pursuit of trophies.

Declan Rice

Rice’s contributions this season have been pivotal for Arsenal. With five league assists, he leads the team in this category and is also top for chances created. His versatility as a midfielder, whether playing in central roles or as a box-to-box performer, has made him a key asset. Even if Arsenal fall short of the title, his consistent excellence and leadership will likely secure his place in the conversation.

“Arsenal’s Rice wins my vote as player of the year for his consistently high quality and leadership as Mikel Arteta’s side go in search of elusive trophies.”

Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United’s captain has been a reliable force, contributing to more goals than any other midfielder this season. With eight goals and 16 assists in 28 games, he is on track to surpass the record of 20 assists set by Thierry Henry and Kevin de Bruyne. Fernandes’s ability to score or assist in nearly every match has made him a standout, especially in a season where many attacking players have struggled for consistency.

“There is no doubt the Manchester United skipper deserves to be named player of the year. He is by far the most regular scorer or provider of goals in the Premier League.”

Antoine Semenyo

A 26-year-old forward, Semenyo has made 19 goal contributions in the Premier League this season. His move to Manchester City under Pep Guardiola proved seamless, as he quickly became a vital part of their attacking line. Despite his role as a substitute, his impact on the pitch has been notable, particularly in pivotal moments during high-stakes matches.

“A player with 19 goal contributions in the Premier League this season, Semenyo has been one of the stars of the top flight for Bournemouth and then Manchester City following his move in January.”

The debate over the Player of the Season award highlights the blend of individual brilliance and team success. While some may argue that the title should reflect a team’s overall performance, the data suggests that standout players from underdog teams have often claimed it. As the season progresses, the final decision will hinge on who delivers the most extraordinary impact, regardless of their club’s final standing.