The Premier League has officially unveiled the eight nominees for the 2025/26 Young Player of the Season Award—and this year's list is packed with rising stars who have lit up the pitch all campaign long.
This coveted prize honors the best player aged 23 or under at the start of the season, with the winner determined by a combination of fan votes and expert opinions. The final verdict is just a week away.
Leading the charge is Manchester City's Rayan Cherki. The French international joined from Lyon over the summer and has been a creative spark for Pep Guardiola's side, notching four goals and a stunning 12 assists in his debut Premier League season. He's the kind of player who makes you sit up and take notice every time he gets the ball.
West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes has also turned heads—so much so that speculation about his future is already heating up, regardless of whether the Hammers avoid relegation. At just 21, the former Southampton man has been a revelation in midfield, showing composure and creativity beyond his years.
Newcastle United may have had a rollercoaster campaign, but Lewis Hall has been a constant bright spot. The versatile full-back has been a reliable performer for the Magpies, proving his worth on both ends of the pitch.
Over at Brentford, the Bees are flying high, and 21-year-old Michael Kayode has been a key part of their success. Known for his monstrous long throws, he's joined teammates Igor Thiago and manager Keith Andrews in the end-of-season award conversations.
Bournemouth's Junior Kroupi is still only 19, but you wouldn't know it from his impact. The French youth international has bagged 12 goals in 31 appearances—and four of those came off the bench, the most of any player in the league this season. He's a supersub with serious star potential.
Kobbie Mainoo took a little while to find his rhythm under Ruben Amorim, but since linking up with Michael Carrick's system, he's been unstoppable. The young midfielder has formed a formidable partnership with veteran Casemiro, showing maturity and technical skill that belies his age.
Manchester's Nico O'Reilly is another name to watch. Still just 21, he's stepped up his game with five goals and eight assists in 33 appearances this season, proving he's more than ready for the big stage.
Rounding out the list is Guernsey-born Alex Scott, who has shown his class for Bournemouth with three goals this season. His intelligent movement and calm finishing have made him a fan favorite at the Vitality Stadium.
With such a talented crop of youngsters, this year's Young Player of the Season race is wide open. Who gets your vote?