Champions League Finalists Arsenal and PSG Highlight Top Performers of Tournament
With only one match remaining in the 2025/26 Champions League, Arsenal and PSG are set to face off in the final. This report examines this year’s standout players throughout the tournament. Players from teams that reached the later stages will be featured prominently.
GK: David Raya
David Raya is currently regarded as the best goalkeeper in the world. After starting his career at Blackburn Rovers, he is now one match away from claiming the Champions League title. Known for his exceptional shot-stopping abilities and game reading skills, Raya has achieved an impressive nine clean sheets in this season’s tournament.
RB: Achraf Hakimi
Achraf Hakimi exemplifies the modern full-back. His strengths lie in both his attacking skills and his tenacious defensive play. Despite currently being injured, he hopes to recover in time for the final. Earlier this year, he also claimed the AFCON title with Morocco, although in controversial circumstances.
CB: William Saliba
William Saliba retains his reputation as the top centre-back globally for the 2025/26 season. Whether in the Premier League or Champions League, Saliba has shown remarkable resilience. His aerial prowess and precise tackling make him a formidable barrier for opposing forwards.
CB: Willian Pacho
Willian Pacho has been a key player in all of PSG’s Champions League matches this season. His consistent performances alongside Marquinhos highlight his importance to the team, as he undertakes much of the necessary defensive responsibilities.
LB: Nuno Mendes
Nuno Mendes stands out as one of the best full-backs currently playing. Initially labeled a wing-back with limited defensive skills, Mendes has proven his critics wrong this season. He effectively handled defensive duties throughout the Champions League, ensuring that rival wingers were kept in check.
RM: Michael Olise
The agile Michael Olise has thrived since leaving Crystal Palace. Formerly a top talent, he has emerged as one of the best wingers while playing for Bayern Munich. Olise leads the assist charts in the Champions League this year, alongside Vinicius Junior, with eight assists each and five goals.
CM: Vitinha
Vitinha epitomizes the role of a midfield general. Despite his shorter stature for a defensive midfielder, he commands the pitch with confidence. His passing accuracy, anticipation, and mobility are exceptional. Although not primarily known for scoring, Vitinha has also netted six goals in this year’s Champions League.
CM: Declan Rice
Declan Rice and Vitinha rank as the premier central midfielders in today’s game. Rice’s abilities have flourished this season, showcasing his skills as a precise passer, solid defender, and strategic thinker. His technical prowess makes him an invaluable asset in central midfield.
LM: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
There are discussions about whether Khvicha Kvaratskhelia could be the world’s best player. His outstanding performances in the Champions League this season support this claim. With ten goals and six assists, Kvaratskhelia has certainly made a significant impact.
ST: Harry Kane
After departing the Premier League to join Bayern Munich, Harry Kane has transformed into an elite strike force. Though already an exceptional player at Tottenham, he has now established himself as one of football’s all-time great forwards. Only one player surpassed Kane’s goal tally in the Champions League this season.
ST: Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe is regarded as one of football’s most prominent contemporary stars. While he may not be the top player in the world at this moment, he is certainly among the best scorers. Mbappe emerged as the tournament’s leading scorer, with 15 goals across 11 matches this Champions League season.