Arsenal named in 2026 PFA Teams of the Year; Olivia

Arsenal named in 2026 PFA Teams of the Year; Olivia

By Sports.

Context

Olivia Smith is an integral part of Arsenal Women, and her recognition as Women's Young Player of the Year puts her in the spotlight as one of the rising stars in the Women's Super League. Her performance not only helps her team but also raises the level of women's football in the country.

Why it matters

Arsenal's success at the 2026 PFA Awards shows their dominance in both the Premier League and Women's Super League. Having five players in the Premier League Team of the Year and three in the WSL Team of the Year strengthens their reputation as one of the premier Premier League clubs. The recognition of Olivia Smith as the Women's Young Player of the Year is a testament to her potential and contribution to Arsenal Women.

Key Points

• Arsenal named in 2026 PFA Teams of the Year; Olivia.
• Arsenal led the PFA Awards 2026 in the number of players selected in the Premier League and WSL Teams of the Year, while Olivia Smith won the Women's Young Player of the Year.
• Arsenal dominate 2026 PFA Teams of the Year.

Arsenal triumphed at the PFA Awards on Tuesday night after securing the most representatives in both men's and women's for the 2026 Teams of the Year. Five Gunners players made the Premier League Team of the Year, three from Arsenal Women made the WSL Team of the Year, while Olivia Smith was awarded the Women's PFA Young Player of the Year award. In the Premier League Team of the Year, goalkeeper David Raya took the lead, followed by the back and midfield four who have really been the pillars of the Gunners: defenders Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba, and Jurrien Timber, and midfielder Declan Rice. In total, five of the PL XI's 11 places went to Arsenal—a strong testament to the quality and consistency of the group over the season. Complete the prestigious PL XI list with four representatives from Manchester City—Nico O'Reilly, Rayan Cherki, Erling Haaland, and Antoine Semenyo—who have both marked the champions' defensive strength and attacking ferocity in recent years. Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes and Brentford's Igor Thiago also entered to make the selection voted for by fellow professional players in the league.

Arsenal Women were also not far behind in the WSL Team of the Year. In came defender Emily Fox, midfielder Mariona Caldentey, and forward Alessia Russo—three names that contributed greatly to the team's campaign. Arsenal's number three matches the number selected from Chelsea and Manchester City, an indication of the top level of women's competition. According to the announcement, the remaining spot in the selection was taken by Toko Koga of Tottenham Hotspur. The Gunners' night got even more lively after Olivia Smith was named Women's PFA Young Player of the Year. Chosen by his fellow professionals, the 22-year-old Canadian made history by becoming the first Arsenal player to win the award since Leah Williamson in 2015. It's not Smith's first time either—he picked up the same honor in 2025 while playing for Liverpool—and he remains the only non-English player to have achieved the award. In total, no club has more representatives than Arsenal in both the men's and women's ranks in the 2026 Teams of the Year. It showcased the depth and quality of the Gunners' program on both sides—from the backbone of the Premier League XI to the stars of the WSL—along with the rise of the new generation represented by Smith. As the next chapters of the season approach, expect these selections to serve as a benchmark for teams aspiring to reach the pinnacle of English football.

What's next

As Arsenal enter the next part of the season, Olivia Smith is expected to continue to be a key part of their campaign. Her accolade may inspire her and her teammates to continue their good run in the Women's Super League. Moreover, Arsenal are expected to continue their efforts to win the next awards in the coming years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was crowned Women's Young Player of the year?

Olivia Smith was crowned Women's PFA Young Player of the Year.

How many Arsenal players are in the Premier League Team of the Year?

Five Arsenal players have been named in the Premier League Team of the Year.

What positions do Arsenal players represent in the PL Team of the Year?

The positions represented by Arsenal players are goalkeeper, defender, and midfielder.

Who are the Arsenal Women players in the WSL Team of the Year?

Arsenal Women's players on the WSL Team of the Year are Emily Fox, Mariona Caldentey, and Alessia Russo.

Which teams have players in the Premier League Team of the Year?

Teams with players in the Premier League Team of the Year are Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Brentford.

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