Every Gallagher Prem club’s best player in 2025-26

Each team has that one player who embodies their identity—be it through raw ability, leadership, or pure star quality. Here's a look at the standout name from each of the 10 PREM Rugby sides this season.

Amid the flurry of changes at Newcastle, one name brings proven pedigree and experience: Liam Williams. The 34-year-old Welsh fullback may be in the latter stages of his career, but his class remains undiminished.

With over a decade of international caps for Wales and two British & Irish Lions tours under his belt, Williams adds a calm authority to the Red Bulls' backline. His nous and ability to beat defenders still make him a threat—and a mentor for the club’s younger talent.

Despite battling injuries, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso has exploded onto the scene with the kind of impact few players manage this early in their careers. Already racking up awards—including Breakthrough Player and RPA Young Player of the Season a couple of seasons ago—his dazzling footwork and sheer power make him unplayable on form. At just 22, he’s become the face of a rejuvenated Chiefs side. If he can stay fit, the sky’s the limit.

Northampton’s success is built on a strong team ethic, but when you need a game-breaker, Tommy Freeman steps up. Last season, he was electric in their Champions Cup run, notching try after try in knockout rugby. That form earned him Lions recognition and cemented his place as Saints’ most in-form player. Whether slicing through defences or finishing under pressure, Freeman is currently Saints’ most valuable weapon. Alex Mitchell, Fin Smith and Henry Pollock were given serious consideration here.

No player captures Harlequins’ flair quite like Marcus Smith. The fly-half remains central to everything they do, dictating tempo, unlocking defences, and producing clutch moments. Since debuting as a teenager, Smith has matured into a world-class playmaker. His dazzling footwork and sharp rugby brain have helped Quins pull off some unforgettable European wins recently, and with a new deal signed through 2028, he’s very much the heart of this team.

Maro Itoje is the beating heart of Saracens and one of the most respected forwards in world rugby. He recently reached 100 international Test caps, underlining his enduring excellence. Whether it’s lineouts, ruck work, or inspirational defence, Itoje leads from the front with relentless intensity.

At 30, he’s still very much at the peak of his powers—an icon for club and country who continues to set the standard.

With Santiago Carreras now at Bath, Gloucester’s talisman is undoubtedly Tomos Williams. Appointed club captain ahead of the new season, the Welsh scrum-half brings sharp attacking instincts and veteran composure.

Injuries have slowed him at times, but when fit, Williams is integral to Gloucester’s tempo and flair. His leadership is just as important as his playmaking, especially in a side chasing that elusive return to the top four.

Ellis Genge is a force of nature in Bristol’s pack. While props rarely get the limelight, Genge demands attention with his thunderous carries and no-nonsense attitude. The England and Lions loosehead brings energy, bite, and a winning mentality to the Bears. In a team full of attacking flair, it’s Genge who sets the tone up front.

If rugby IQ could be measured, George Ford might break the scale. The Sale fly-half is a master of control and orchestration, and his recent contract extension is a huge boost for the Sharks.

Whether it's nudging territory, threading kicks, or delivering pressure-drop goals, Ford reads the game like few others. With England ambitions still burning after a strong summer, he remains the engine behind everything Sale do right.

Versatile, physical, and frighteningly consistent, Ollie Chessum has fast become Leicester’s linchpin. Just 25, he’s already a Lions tourist and a core part of England’s pack. Whether at lock or blindside, Chessum brings aggression and control to the breakdown and lineout.

His athleticism, particularly at 6'7", makes him an asset in every phase, and he's arguably the most complete forward Leicester have produced in years.

Bath's transformation in recent seasons owes a lot to the magic of Finn Russell. The Scottish playmaker has brought his signature creativity and swagger to the West Country, turning tight games on their head with moments of genius.

His ability to control a match while still playing with flair makes him one of the most entertaining and effective players in the world. Quite simply, he’s Bath’s crown jewel.