EPL Team of the Week: Gameweek 22

Joao Pedro, Bryan Mbeumo, and Florian Wirtz all found the net, playing key roles in important wins for their respective clubs. So, which players have done enough to earn a spot in our Team of the Week from the weekend’s results? Let’s dive straight into the best-performing XI.

Goalkeeper: Matz Sels (Nottingham Forest)

This was a straightforward choice. Matz Sels produced one of the standout performances of the weekend, keeping a clean sheet against the Premier League leaders to secure a hard-earned goalless draw for Nottingham Forest. The Belgian goalkeeper was called into action on several occasions, making a series of crucial saves, and was an easy pick to start between the posts.

Central Defender: Murillo (Nottingham Forest)

Staying with the Tricky Trees, Murillo once again showed why he is regarded as one of the most in-demand defenders in Europe. He delivered a composed and assured display against the Gunners, standing out not only for his defensive work but also for his confidence and quality in possession.

Central Defender: Nikola Milenkovic: (Nottingham Forest)

It may look like we are showing a bit of favouritism towards Forest, but Nikola Milenkovic fully earned his place alongside Murillo. He was rock-solid throughout the match, throwing himself into challenges and coming out on top in the majority of his duels. The Serbian centre-back also made life extremely uncomfortable for Victor Gyokeres from start to finish.

Left Back: Ladislav Krejci (Wolves)

Although deployed more as a left-sided centre-back in a back three, Ladislav Krejci earns our pick at left back thanks to a stellar performance against Newcastle. The Czech defender worked tirelessly, putting in a disciplined display while playing a crucial role in keeping a clean sheet and neutralising threats from the likes of Anthony Gordon and Nick Woltemade.

Right Back: Nathan Patterson (Everton)

At right back, Nathan Patterson takes the spot after a strong display against Aston Villa, playing a key role in helping the Toffees keep a clean sheet. The Scottish international, who has been heavily linked with a move this month, certainly boosted his stock with a commanding performance against Unai Emery’s side.

Central Midfield: Casemiro (Manchester United

Casemiro produced a commanding performance on a big occasion, holding his own against a star-studded Manchester City midfield. He repeatedly broke up play and followed it up with smart, measured distribution. The Brazilian really should have made it count when he went one-on-one with Gianluigi Donnarumma, but that did little to take away from his display, as shown by the huge reception he received when he left the pitch.

Central Midfield: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)

Bruno Fernandes set the tone with a tireless and classy display against Manchester City. A true leader on the pitch, he drove United’s play forward, orchestrating their best moves and even charging upfield to set up Mbeumo, combining vision, work rate, and leadership in one performance.

Right Midfield: Pedro Neto (Chelsea)

The Portuguese winger was Chelsea’s most dangerous player in their win over Brentford. He caused problems all game on the right with his blistering pace and skillful dribbling. He played a perfect ball to Garnacho, who failed to make the most of it, so he wasn’t credited with an assist – but his influence on the attack was clear. On top of that, his work rate off the ball was impressive, showing his effort and commitment throughout the match.

Left Midfield: Patrick Dorgu (Manchester United)

Another impressive outing from the Dane, this time operating on his natural left side. He was a constant threat, using his pace and movement to stretch City’s defence and create space for his teammates. His positive, forward-thinking runs kept the opposition on their toes all game, and he was rightly rewarded for his influence on the match by scoring United’s second goal.

Central Attacking Midfield: Florian Wirtz (Liverpool)

Florian Wirtz was labelled a flop far too early in his Liverpool career, but the German has quietly become one of Arne Slot’s standout performers in recent weeks. Given the freedom to roam, he was excellent in possession and fully deserved his goal against Burnley.

Forward: Joao Pedro (Chelsea)

The Brazilian Chelsea forward put in a tireless performance against a tough Brentford side and capped it off with a superb left-footed finish past Caoimhin Kelleher. Joao Pedro was impressive throughout, contributing far more than just his goal, and his recent form speaks for itself with four goals and two assists in his last five appearances for the Blues.