Declan Rice, Arsenal`s dynamic midfielder, has earned the distinction of being the sole player from the English Premier League named in UEFA’s official Champions League team of the season.
The England international was a pivotal figure in Arsenal`s journey through the Champions League campaign. A standout moment included his two spectacular free-kick goals scored during the first leg of their quarter-final fixture.
Rice finds himself alongside several players from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). According to the provided text, PSG secured the competition victory by defeating Inter Milan 5-0 in Munich. Notable PSG inclusions in the team are Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Vitinha, among others.
Here is the complete Champions League Team of the Season:
- Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG)
- Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (PSG), Marquinhos (PSG), Alessandro Bastoni (Inter), Nuno Mendes (PSG)
- Midfielders: Declan Rice (Arsenal), Vitinha (PSG)
- Forwards: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Ousmane Dembele (PSG), Desire Doue (PSG), Raphinha (Barcelona)
UEFA also announced the recipients of the individual player awards.
PSG forward Ousmane Dembele was recognized as the player of the season. He netted eight goals throughout the tournament, contributing significantly to his team`s stated success.
The award for the young player of the season went to Dembele`s PSG teammate, Desire Doue. Doue notably scored two goals in the final match against Inter.
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal claimed the goal of the season award for his impressive strike in Barcelona`s 3-3 draw at home in the first leg against Inter.
Speaking about the season, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin commented: “This season, the UEFA Champions League has embraced a new format, injecting fresh excitement and a higher level of competition. It has allowed more teams than ever to challenge for glory in the world’s most prestigious club competition and offered great thrills, excitement and the best football to billions of fans across the globe.”
He added: “The tremendous success of these reforms, made in a spirit of respect and understanding of all European football stakeholders – the clubs, the leagues and national associations – proves that the game can evolve to another level only by upholding the core values of open competition, sporting merit and solidarity. And when football thrives, everybody benefits.”
