The Athletic has updated its ranking of the top 50 players in the Premier League, this time focusing exclusively on current form. Previous rankings were criticized for mixing in players based on reputation, but this iteration prioritizes recent performance, including top scorers, creative forces, strong defenders, and impactful players.
The selection process involved input from club writers, data analysis, and direct observation of matches from the 2026-27 season.
Here are some of the players featured:
50. Victor Lindelof (Aston Villa) – Praised for his commanding displays at center-back, effectively filling the void left by Ezri Konsa. 49. Jan Paul van Hecke (Tottenham) – Despite early challenges, his quality is emerging, and he’s seen as a potentially shrewd signing. 48. Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest) – Considered one of the best No. 10s in England this year, with high expected assists and chances created. 47. Sean Steur (Newcastle) – A young, promising £21.5 million recruit from Ajax, noted for his ball-carrying, defensive work, and passion. 46. Antonio Silva (Bournemouth) – A quick adaptation to the Premier League has made him a key player in Bournemouth’s recent run of clean sheets. 45. Konstantinos Tzolakis (Hull City) – The Greek goalkeeper has made 41 saves this season, showing a nerveless presence for Hull. 44. Kevin Schade (Brentford) – A solid contributor to Brentford’s effective team, with goals earlier in the season and ongoing contributions to results. 43. Calvin Bassey (Fulham) – Underrated as a center-back, he’s had an excellent start to the season with Fulham. 42. Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town) – Contributes goals and assists, embodying Ipswich’s attacking style with creativity and a long-range shooting threat. 41. Murillo (Nottingham Forest) – An all-action center-back returning to form, known for his defensive recovery and occasional ambitious attempts. 40. Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Leeds) – Demonstrating his poaching ability and tireless leading of the line for Leeds, with a new contract anticipated. 39. Lewis Hall (Newcastle United) – Developing into one of Europe’s top left-backs, he’s been Newcastle’s standout player, contributing offensively and defensively. 38. Thierno Barry (Everton) – Joint-third in scoring, he’s in a career purple patch, though his high number of missed big chances raises questions about his efficiency. 37. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) – Showing signs of returning to form before an injury, his attacking numbers are still a focus for improvement. 36. Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur) – Remodeled by Roberto De Zerbi into a more patient and assured ball-playing center-back, while retaining his speed. 35. Alex Iwobi (Fulham) – A solid and creative midfield presence, his switch to the left wing has been fruitful, contributing significantly to expected assists. 34. Alexander Isak (Liverpool) – Appearing to settle into Liverpool’s system and nearing double figures for club and country, he’s a key striker. 33. Brian Brobbey (Sunderland) – Dominates opponents when in form, as seen in Sunderland’s victory against Chelsea, though he has withdrawn from the Netherlands squad due to injury. 32. Sandro Tonali (Tottenham) – Has been instrumental in Tottenham’s recent winning streak, showing hard work and graft. 31. James Trafford (Leeds) – Despite a minor blip, he has maintained a solid record for Leeds, making numerous saves and keeping four clean sheets. 30. Jack Rudoni (Coventry City) – A key midfielder for Coventry, contributing crucial goals in their fight for survival. 29. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Everton) – A standout performer in recent weeks, lifting Everton’s play and creating significant chances. 28. Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool) – Showing a resurgence with goals and assists, he acts as a leader on the pitch for Liverpool. 27. Johan Manzambi (Aston Villa) – An impressive start with goals and assists, fitting perfectly into Unai Emery’s No. 10 role.
