Following Sunday’s Manchester derby, Pep Guardiola declared that Phil Foden was the best player in the Premier League, sparking a discussion.
Even though we don’t agree with the Manchester City manager, we don’t think he will be overly upset with the players who rank in our top 10.
1. Kevin De Bruyne
Since returning from a five-month injury layoff in January, Kevin De Bruyne has recorded a goal involvement every 48 minutes across all competitions.
With the Belgian on the field, the opposition is never safe, and he continues to be the player Liverpool and Arsenal are most afraid could tip the title race in City’s favor.
2. Rodri
Rodri, the center of attention for Guardiola’s team, is unquestionably the best holding midfielder in world football.
Fortunately, he also has a knack for finding the back of the net. This season, he has scored vital goals against Sheffield United and Chelsea to go along with the winner of the Champions League final from last season.
3. Mohamed Salah
Over the course of his six complete Premier League seasons, Mohamed Salah has not let up less than 19 goals, a record that would make any team proud.
If he does both, he could lead Liverpool to the title. He needs four more goals to continue that run this season. He is also one assist away from reaching double figures for the sixth time.
4. Phil Foden
A spot or two higher than he might have been, thanks to Foden’s derby-day heroics. With his current play, the 23-year-old is genuinely among the best players in the division and is a contender for the end-of-season awards.
5. Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland, who should be in the top three, drops to fifth place due to an odd run of misses.
Given the big games that are coming up over the next few weeks that he could potentially influence, it seems unlikely that he will ever drop below.
6. Bukayo Saka
Prior to Arsenal’s 6-0 victory over Sheffield United on Monday, where he also had two assists, Bukayo Saka had scored in five straight league games.
He consistently finishes in the top 10 and ranks fourth in the division for goal contributions.
7. Virgil van Dijk
A serious knee injury sustained in 2020 appeared to have permanently slowed down Virgil van Dijk during the previous season.
Rather, the Netherlands captains Liverpool brilliantly and has reverted to his imperious form.
8. Declan Rice
Both Declan Rice’s efforts in midfield and those of the defenders lining up behind him are responsible for Arsenal’s outstanding defensive record.
The Gunners now have complete control over the game thanks to the summer acquisition from West Ham, who has also shown himself useful from set pieces.
9. Martin Odegaard
After pulling the strings during a run of form that saw Arsenal win their seven Premier League games in 2024 by an aggregate score of 31-3, Rice’s midfield partner slots in at No. 9.
Although Martin Odegaard’s stats—six goals and seven assists in 24 league games—may not be as impressive as those of his illustrious opponents, his ability to press and create opportunities for attacks is crucial.
10. Ollie Watkins
Being a non-top three team and posting the most goal contributions in the league is quite an accomplishment.
As the only player to record double digits in goals and assists, Ollie Watkins appears destined to guide Aston Villa into the Champions League.