Adrian Durham has sparked debate over this season’s top individual honour, criticising Arsenal while backing Manchester City forward Rayan Cherki as his clear choice for Player of the Year.
The north London side have set the pace for much of the campaign, building a significant gap at the summit and putting themselves firmly in control of the title race.
Under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have demonstrated consistency, discipline and efficiency — qualities that have translated into results week after week.
Yet despite their dominance in the standings, not everyone has been convinced by the aesthetic side of their football.
Durham, speaking on talkSPORT, has voiced strong reservations about the way Arsenal operate, suggesting their system prioritises structure over individual flair.
In his view, that approach should count against their players when it comes to individual accolades.
Durham questions Arsenal’s style despite title charge
While Arsenal’s position at the top of the table reflects a season of sustained excellence, Durham has drawn a distinction between team success and individual brilliance.
He has argued that the Gunners’ collective strength does not necessarily produce standout candidates for personal awards such as the Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year.
Speaking candidly, he said: “I’m thinking of the footballer of the year. You can’t have any Arsenal players, they’re not footballers, okay? They’re just robots. So, you can’t have any Arsenal players as player of the year.”
His remarks underline a broader argument — that Arsenal’s effectiveness stems from a highly drilled system rather than moments of individual inspiration.
While acknowledging their achievements, Durham suggested their style lacks the entertainment factor typically associated with award-winning performers.
“None of us are entertained by Arsenal and you can’t really knock what they’re doing. They’re the top of the league. They’re probably going to win the league,” he continued.
He went further to emphasise the distinction he sees between team success and individual artistry, adding: “If Man City win the Premier League, this is a no-brainer. But if Arsenal do win the Premier League, they are just robotic. And we’re talking about footballer of the year, not robot of the year.”
Cherki backed as standout performer
In contrast, Durham has singled out Cherki as the league’s most exciting and deserving player this season, praising the Frenchman’s creativity and ability to influence games in decisive moments.
“He [Cherki] is the only contender for footballer of the year. Rayan Cherki has won it already,” he said.
The Manchester City attacker has impressed with his attacking output and inventive play, even in a campaign where he has not always been a guaranteed starter.
Featuring in 25 league matches, including 14 from the start, Cherki has contributed eight assists — a return that highlights his effectiveness in the final third.
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Beyond the raw numbers, it is his underlying creativity that has caught attention. With 15 big chances created and a total of 42 opportunities fashioned for teammates, Cherki has consistently demonstrated an ability to unlock defences.
His style contrasts sharply with the structured approach Durham attributes to Arsenal, relying instead on spontaneity and technical skill.
Durham reinforced his admiration by stating: “Rayan Cherki is literally the only one who’s playing proper football in the Premier League.”
Such praise places Cherki firmly in the spotlight as discussions around end-of-season awards gather pace.
While Manchester City continue to chase Arsenal in the title race, individual recognition could yet swing in favour of players who provide moments of brilliance rather than simply contributing to a well-oiled system.
