Arsenal dominate 2026 London Football Awards as Arteta, Rice, Raya and Russo honoured

Arsenal enjoyed a dominant night at the 2026 London Football Awards, with Mikel Arteta, Declan Rice, David Raya and Alessia Russo among the club’s major winners. The ceremony, held at Exhibition White City in west London, highlighted Arsenal’s influence across the capital this season as the club continues its strong run domestically and in Europe.

Arteta named Manager of the Year

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was awarded Manager of the Year after guiding the club to the top of the Premier League while also leading the Gunners to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009.

It marks another milestone in Arteta’s rebuilding project at the North London club, with Arsenal competing strongly across both domestic and European competitions this season.

Declan Rice wins Premier League Player of the Year

Midfield star Declan Rice headlined the individual awards, winning Premier League Player of the Year following a commanding season at the heart of Arsenal’s title challenge. Rice received the award from former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott and edged competition from several London-based players including Jurriën Timber, Harry Wilson, Igor Thiago and Moisés Caicedo.

Raya retains Goalkeeper of the Year Award

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya was named Goalkeeper of the Year for the second consecutive season. The Spanish international has been crucial to Arsenal’s defensive solidity, recording 13 clean sheets in the league during the campaign.

Russo shines for Arsenal Women

Arsenal’s dominance extended to the women’s game as striker Alessia Russo claimed the Women’s Super League Player of the Year award.

Russo has enjoyed an outstanding season leading the attack for the Gunners under head coach Renee Slegers, playing a key role in Arsenal’s strong domestic campaign.

Related Article: Alessia Russo named FWA Women's Footballer of the Year

Eberechi Eze recognised for Community Impact

Eberechi Eze was honoured with the inaugural PFA Men’s Player in the Community Champion award for his work through the Eze Foundation, which supports young people in London by helping bridge the gap between education and employment.

Other winners on the night

Several other London clubs and players were recognised during the ceremony. Former Arsenal and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole received the Outstanding Contribution to London Football Award for his remarkable career at the highest level.

Chelsea F.C. also celebrated success on the night:

• Estêvão Willian won Men’s Young Player of the Year
• Alyssa Thompson was named Women’s Young Player of the Year

Meanwhile, England defender Millie Bright received the PFA Women’s Player award for her work with the Chelsea Foundation and community initiatives supporting young girls and disadvantaged groups.

Lionesses and Lower League Recognition

The England Women's National Football Team, the Lionesses were honoured with the Power of Football Award following their successful defence of the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship.

In the English Football League, Bromley striker Michael Cheek was named EFL Player of the Season after scoring 16 league goals in a campaign that sees Bromley top of EFL League Two.

Charity at the heart of the Awards

Now in its 12th year, the London Football Awards celebrates achievements across the capital while raising funds for Willow Foundation, a national charity that provides special experiences for seriously ill young adults aged 16–40.

The charity was founded by former Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson and his wife Megs following the death of their daughter Anna from cancer. To date, Willow has delivered more than 23,500 special experiences for young adults across the UK.