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Darke's Premier League Best and Worst XI: Haaland Shines, Salah Fades

ESPN Soccer •
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ESPN's Ian Darke capped the Premier League season by naming his Team of the Year, celebrating a campaign where Arsenal ended their 22-year title drought. The veteran commentator, who has covered English football since 1982, selected a 4-3-1-2 formation highlighting standout performers across the pitch.

Arsenal dominated Darke's selections with three players, including goalkeeper David Raya and center-back pairing William Saliba and Gabriel. Bruno Fernandes earned plaudits for his record-breaking 21 assists, while Erling Haaland claimed the Golden Boot with 27 goals. Antoine Semenyo's 17 goals across two clubs secured his place in attack.

The most disappointing XI featured several high-profile names who failed to meet expectations. Mohamed Salah's dramatic decline from 29 goals to just seven this season highlighted Liverpool's struggles, while Milos Kerkez and Cristian Romero also made the list. Lucas Perri's failure to establish himself at Leeds exemplified the challenges promoted clubs face.

Darke's selections reflect a season of stark contrasts, where individual brilliance couldn't mask collective failures. The contrast between champions and relegated sides underscores how quickly fortunes can change in England's top flight.