Rice, Shaw & McInnes among BBC Football Awards winners

Rice Shaw McInnes among BBC Football – As the curtain falls on another thrilling season of football, BBC Sport has announced the winners of its annual Football Awards. This year’s accolades, chosen by a panel of seasoned pundits, in-depth journalists, and passionate programme makers, honor the standout performers across the Premier League, Women’s Super League, Scottish Premiership, and EFL. The voting process, which saw fierce competition, highlighted players who not only led their teams to triumph but also shone in challenging circumstances. With a rich tapestry of talent and dramatic moments, the awards capture the essence of a season defined by moments of brilliance and resilience.

Roll up, roll up – it’s time for BBC Sport’s first end-of-season football awards. Voted for by our expert pundits, dedicated team of journalists, and specialist football programme makers, these awards celebrate the players who starred in the Premier League, Women’s Super League, Scottish Premiership and EFL in 2025-26.

Men’s Best Player of the Season: Declan Rice

The men’s Best Player of the Season award was fiercely contested, but Declan Rice emerged victorious. The Arsenal midfielder, known for his composure and tactical nous, played a pivotal role in guiding his team to their first Premier League title since 2004. Rice’s ability to orchestrate play from the base of the midfield, coupled with his knack for scoring crucial set-pieces, became a cornerstone of the Gunners’ success. His leadership on the pitch, particularly in the final stretch of the season, was instrumental in overcoming a streak of second-place finishes.

Rice’s dominance was underscored by his consistency, with standout moments including decisive contributions in high-stakes matches. While Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes narrowly missed out, having set a new single-season assists record, and Brentford’s Igor Thiago claimed third, the award ultimately went to the player whose performances encapsulated the spirit of the campaign.

Women’s Best Player of the Season: Khadija Shaw

Khadija Shaw’s journey to the Women’s Best Player of the Season title was nothing short of remarkable. The Manchester City striker, who scored 21 goals in just 22 matches, was a key figure in the club’s historic WSL title win. Her clinical finishing and creative playmaking made her an indispensable asset, as the Lionesses secured their first league crown in a decade. Shaw’s impact was amplified by her role in a season that will be remembered for its intensity and quality.

With over 80% of the votes, Shaw’s achievement was a landslide. Her renewed contract with City signals a bright future for the player, who not only broke Chelsea’s decade-long dominance of the league but also became a symbol of Manchester City’s renaissance under manager Andree Jeglertz.

Manager of the Year: Andree Jeglertz

The Manager of the Year award was a closely fought battle, but Andree Jeglertz of Manchester City took the crown by a single vote. His side’s dominance throughout the season, culminating in a record-breaking campaign, ensured Jeglertz’s name was on everyone’s lips. With the possibility of claiming a double in the Women’s FA Cup final against Brighton, his leadership and strategic vision were key to City’s success.

Jeglertz’s tenure at the helm of the team has been transformative, and his ability to maintain focus in high-pressure scenarios has been a defining trait. While other managers, such as Derek McInnes of Hearts, came close, Jeglertz’s consistency and tactical acumen ultimately secured his victory.

Breakthrough Player: Claudio Braga

Claudio Braga’s emergence as a breakthrough player was nothing short of meteoric. The Portuguese forward, who led Hearts’ title charge, scored 14 goals and added three assists in a campaign that saw his team finish just short of glory. Braga’s relentless energy and goal-scoring prowess made him a fan favorite, and his performance was a testament to his growth in the sport.

Though Braga’s team fell to Celtic in the final match, his individual brilliance shone through. He was edged out by Veerle Buurman, who was also recognized for her standout contributions, and Lawrence Shankland, who, despite moving to Rangers, was still celebrated for his role in Hearts’ efforts. The award highlighted the journey of players who made significant strides during the season.

Signing of the Season: Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka’s £17 million move from Bayer Leverkusen to Sunderland was the signing of the season. The midfielder, who brought his experience and playmaking ability to the North East, immediately made an impact with his composure and technical skills. His arrival was seen as a masterstroke, as Sunderland looked to bolster their squad for a challenging campaign.

Shock of the Season: Tottenham’s Relegation

Tottenham’s unexpected relegation was the season’s most dramatic storyline. Despite high expectations, the north London side struggled throughout the campaign, culminating in a shock exit from the Premier League. The team’s inconsistency and defensive vulnerabilities were key factors in their downfall, but the silver lining was the recognition of their efforts in the face of adversity.

Meanwhile, the most predictable sacking of the season was Ange Postecoglou at Nottingham Forest, who was dismissed after a lackluster performance. On the flip side, the worst widely held prediction was Liverpool’s retention of the title, a feat they narrowly missed as Manchester City surged to the top.

Honorable Mentions and Finalists

Other notable mentions included Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, whose performances earned him a strong showing, and Brentford’s Keith Andrews, who was praised for his contributions. Sunderland’s Regis Le Bris also received attention for his role in the team’s efforts, though he finished just short of the top prize.

For the breakthrough player award, Veerle Buurman was a strong contender, showcasing her potential with consistent performances. Her teammate Claudio Braga, despite finishing second, was a key figure in Hearts’ title hopes. The award was a testament to the growth of emerging talents in the league.

Harrison Reed’s goal of the season was a moment of pure magic. In a dramatic finale against Liverpool, the Fulham forward’s 25-yard strike swerved past Alisson’s dive and found the top corner, securing a 2-1 victory. Reed’s performance was a standout, surpassing team-mate Harry Wilson and Manchester City’s Rayan Cherki in the voting.

The awards also celebrated the season’s defining moments, from Rice’s leadership to Shaw’s goal-scoring prowess. Each winner’s journey reflects the unpredictable nature of football, where individual brilliance and collective effort intertwine to create unforgettable memories.

As the season draws to a close, these awards not only recognize individual achievements but also highlight the broader narratives that shaped the campaign. From the unexpected to the triumphant, the BBC Football Awards capture the spirit of the sport in a season that will be remembered for its drama and excellence.