The conclusion of the extraordinary 2022-23 English Premier League (EPL) season has allowed us to reflect on a campaign filled with unprecedented challenges and remarkable outcomes. As domestic football across the globe took a pause for over eight weeks to accommodate the eagerly anticipated 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a fresh set of hurdles awaited managers and players alike.
In this captivating season, Manchester City emerged as the undeniable champions, their indomitable form highlighted by an astounding 25-match unbeaten run. This formidable streak propelled them past Arsenal in the final stretch, securing their fifth Premier League title under the guidance of the esteemed Pep Guardiola. Notably, City’s triumph marked a remarkable third consecutive league victory, cementing their status as a dominant force in English football.
The composition of the top four teams in the EPL experienced a seismic shift, adding a dramatic twist to the season’s narrative. Newcastle, Arsenal and Manchester United defied expectations, securing coveted Champions League berths at the expense of traditional heavyweights Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham. This unexpected turn of events injected a fresh dose of excitement into the league, as the underdogs rose to prominence, reshaping the hierarchy of English football.
Conversely, the bottom of the table witnessed the heartbreaking end of an era for Leicester City, Leeds United, and Southampton. These clubs bid farewell to their Premier League journey, the culmination of their respective chapters in the top flight. Leicester’s descent into the lower divisions, just seven years after their remarkable title triumph, was particularly poignant, serving as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the beautiful game.
Looking back at this unique Premier League season, it is evident that the footballing landscape underwent a significant transformation. The trials and triumphs experienced by each club further enriched the sport, captivating fans worldwide with its unpredictability and compelling storylines.
As the dust settles, here’s t2’s take on the Best Premier League XI of season 2022-23.
Formation used: 4-4-2
DAVID DE GEA
Team: Manchester United; Position: Goalkeeper
David De Gea showcased his exceptional goalkeeping prowess in the 2023 Premier League season. With lightning-fast reflexes and remarkable shot-stopping abilities, he consistently delivered standout performances for his team. De Gea’s agility and acrobatic saves proved instrumental in crucial moments, earning him the admiration of fans and pundits alike. His consistent form and leadership skills instilled confidence in his teammates, providing a solid foundation at the back. De Gea’s unwavering focus and ability to make vital saves under pressure solidified his reputation as one of the league’s finest goalkeepers, leaving a lasting impact on the 2023 Premier League season and also bagging the Premier League Golden Glove winner as well.
LUKE SHAW
Team: Manchester United; Position: Left Back
Luke Shaw, the marauding left-back of Manchester United, has enjoyed a sensational season in the Premier League of 2022-23. With new-found confidence, Shaw has been a relentless force down the left flank, combining his defensive solidity with blistering attacking runs. His pinpoint crosses and incisive passes have become a vital source of assists, contributing significantly to United’s goal tally. Shaw’s tireless work ethic and improved fitness levels have made him a constant threat throughout matches, both in defence and attack. His remarkable resurgence has cemented his place among the league’s elite full-backs, earning plaudits for his stellar performances.
KIERAN TRIPPIER
Team: Newcastle United; Position: Right Back
In the Premier League’s 2022-23 season, Kieran Trippier had a commanding presence and tactical astuteness as he orchestrated the back line directing the symphony of defensive solidity. Trippier’s positioning and anticipation were second to none. His reading of the game was a masterclass in defensive intelligence, as he intercepted passes with surgical precision and disrupted opposition attacks with tenacity. But it wasn’t just his defensive acumen that set Trippier apart. His surging forward runs added an extra dimension to his team’s attacks, providing width and incisive crosses that caused chaos in the opponent’s penalty area. His deliveries were a work of art, guided by a mix of finesse and power,
(Clockwise from left) Sven Botman, Bukayo Saka, Ruben Dias, Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw
inviting his teammates to feast on scoring opportunities. Trippier’s leadership on the pitch was palpable. His voice echoed through the stadium as he organised his teammates, urging them to maintain defensive shape and cohesion.
RUBEN DIAS
Team: Manchester City; Position: Centre Back
In the Premier League’s 2022-23 season, Ruben Dias stood tall as the epitome of defensive excellence. Like a fortress at the heart of the defence, he radiated a sense of calm and authority, inspiring confidence in his teammates and striking fear into the hearts of opposing attackers. Dias’s reading of the game was akin to a seasoned sage, as he anticipated and nullified threats with remarkable precision. His positioning was immaculate, always in the right place at the right time to intercept passes and make crucial tackles. His aerial prowess was a sight to behold, as he soared above the competition, winning headers and clearing the danger with ease. But it wasn’t just his defensive solidity that defined Dias’s performances. His ability to initiate attacks from the back was a testament to his composure and vision. Off the field, Dias exuded professionalism and humility. He embraced his role as a role model, displaying a relentless dedication to improvement and a genuine love for the game.
SVEN BOTMAN
Team: Newcastle United; Position: Centre Back
Sven Botman, the defensive colossus of the Premier League, has left an indelible mark on the 2022-23 season. With his towering presence and unwavering composure, he has formed an impenetrable wall at the heart of Newcastle’s defence with Fabian Schär. Botman’s exceptional aerial prowess and impeccable positioning make him a nightmare for opposing attackers, thwarting countless goal-scoring opportunities. His ball-playing abilities have also shone through, initiating attacks with accurate long-range passes. Week after week, Botman showcases his leadership, organising the backline with authority. Botman’s impact on Newcastle’s defensive solidity and their pursuit of silverware is undeniable, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in English football.
RODRI
Team: Manchester City; Position: Central Defensive Midfielder
Rodri, the maestro of Manchester City’s midfield, has dazzled in the Premier League season of 2022-23. With his impeccable passing and tactical intelligence, he orchestrates the game with finesse. Rodri’s vision on the pitch is a sight to behold as he effortlessly unlocks opposition defences, threading incisive through balls to his teammates. His ability to control the tempo of matches is unmatched, dictating the rhythm of City’s play. Not only a creator, but Rodri is also a defensive stalwart, intercepting passes and breaking up opposition attacks. In just 100 words, Rodri’s impact on Manchester City’s success is undeniable, cementing his status as one of the league’s finest midfielders.
KEVIN DE BRUYNE
Team: Manchester City; Position: Central Midfielder
Kevin De Bruyne, the midfield magician of Manchester City, has once again showcased his unrivalled brilliance in the 2022-23 Premier League season. With his exceptional vision and precision passing, De Bruyne orchestrates City’s attacks with surgical precision. His ability to create scoring opportunities out of thin air is a testament to his extraordinary talent. Whether it’s through pinpoint crosses, defence-splitting through balls, or long-range screamers, De Bruyne is a constant threat. His tireless work rate and commitment to the team’s cause make him an exemplary leader on the pitch. De Bruyne’s impact on City’s success and his standing as one of the league’s finest playmakers is undeniable as he created the most chances in the Premier League and was the absolute clinical playmaker for this season’s champions Manchester City.
BUKAYO SAKA
Team: Arsenal; Position: Right Attacking Winger
Bukayo Saka, the young prodigy of Arsenal, has set the Premier League alight in the 2022-23 season. His explosive performances and electrifying pace have left defenders in his wake. Saka’s dribbling skills and close control are mesmerising, as he effortlessly glides past opponents, creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. His versatility shines through as he seamlessly transitions between different positions, providing a constant threat from the flanks or through the middle. Saka’s work rate and tenacity are commendable, tirelessly tracking back to win back possession. His impact on Arsenal’s attack and his rapid development make him a rising star in English football as he scored 14 goals and had 11 assists this season along with signing a long-term contract with the club.
MARCUS RASHFORD
Team: Manchester United; Position: Left Attacking Winger
Dn the 2022-23 Premier League season, Marcus Rashford illuminated the footballing stage with his electrifying presence. Like a shooting star streaking across the night sky, he dazzled spectators with his blistering pace and mesmerising dribbling skills. Rashford’s explosive acceleration left defenders gasping for breath as he tore through opposition lines like a whirlwind. His dribbling mastery was a spectacle to behold, as he glided effortlessly past challenges, defying the laws of gravity with his quicksilver agility. Rashford had a very poor campaign in the last season but his redemption this season is one for the history books. Rashford’s finishing was a thunderous symphony of power and precision. From curling shots that kissed the top corner to thunderous strikes that rattled the net, he showcased a lethal proficiency in front of goal as he found the back of the net 17 times this season. His advocacy for social causes and commitment to making a difference in society elevated him to the status of a role model, inspiring a generation both on and off the pitch. Along with that, he was awarded the Sir Matt Busby Men’s Player of the Year for Manchester United.
ERLING HAALAND
Team: Manchester City; Position: Center Forward
Erling Haaland’s arrival in the Premier League during the 2022-23 season was nothing short of a seismic event, sending shockwaves through stadiums and captivating fans with his raw power and incredible talent. With each stride, he exuded an aura of dominance, leaving defenders trembling in his wake. Haaland’s predatory instincts were unmatched, as he unleashed a relentless barrage of goals that seemed to defy the laws of physics. His lightning-quick acceleration and explosive bursts of speed left opponents in a cloud of dust, while his lethal finishing was a sight to behold. With every thunderous strike, the net bulged as if bowing down to his unrivalled scoring prowess. Having scored a record 36 goals in the Premier League, Haaland is an inevitable choice up front, especially after winning the Golden Boot along with other important accolades like PL’s Best Player of the Season and PL’s Best Young Player of the Season.
HARRY KANE
Team: Tottenham Hotspur FC; Position: Centre Forward
In the Premier League’s 2022-23 season, Harry Kane graced the stage with a majestic display of skill and finesse. Like a conductor, he orchestrated the game with an elegant touch, blending intelligence and technique to create a symphony of footballing artistry. But it was Kane’s clinical finishing that truly set him apart. Like a sculptor shaping a masterpiece, he moulded the ball with exquisite precision, finding the back of the net time and time again. His goals were not mere strikes but works of art, each one etching itself into the annals of footballing history. Beyond his individual brilliance, Kane’s leadership was evident in every stride. A beacon of inspiration, he rallied his teammates, lifting their spirits and driving them to new heights. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game was unmatched, pulling the strings and dictating the rhythm with regal authority. Although Spurs had a topsy-turvy season with an array of managers leaving the club and Spurs not qualifying for European football after a long time, it was Harry Kane who spearheaded them throughout the season scoring 30 goals.
