The UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Season for 2025-2026 was unveiled on Monday evening, and it tells a clear story of dominance. Paris Saint-Germain, on track to clinch the league title, placed five players in the lineup: right-back Achraf Hakimi, center-back Willian Pacho, left-back Nuno Mendes, midfielder Vitinha, and forward Ousmane Dembélé. Their runner-up, Lens, contributed four: goalkeeper Robin Risser, defender Malang Sarr, midfielder Mamadou Sangaré, and winger Florian Thauvin. Lyon and Marseille each earned one selection, with Corentin Tolisso and Mason Greenwood respectively. This distribution mirrors the league standings and underscores the two-horse race that defined the season.
For PSG, the selections represent continuity. All five Parisians were also part of the 2024-2025 Team of the Season, a testament to their consistent high performance. Hakimi and Mendes have been pillars on the flanks, Pacho emerged as a defensive leader, Vitinha controlled the midfield, and Dembélé delivered decisive goals. Their repeated inclusion highlights the core that has kept PSG atop Ligue 1.
Lens's quartet is a breakout story. Each player receives their first UNFP Team of the Season honor, reflecting the club's remarkable rise under its current project. Goalkeeper Risser has been a reliable last line, Sarr anchored the defense, Sangaré provided energy and creativity in midfield, and Thauvin brought veteran quality and goals. Lens's ability to develop and attract such talent positions them as long-term challengers.
Lyon's Corentin Tolisso returns to form after injury setbacks. His midfield displays earned him a spot, showcasing his passing range and work rate. For Marseille, Mason Greenwood's inclusion validates his impact since joining; his goals and assists have been crucial for OM's campaign. Both players represent their clubs' hopes for rebuilding around proven performers.
The composition of this year's team reflects broader league trends. PSG's financial power continues to attract top talent, but Lens's emergence proves that smart recruitment and team cohesion can close the gap. The absence of teams like Monaco, Lille, or Nice suggests a period of transition. The UNFP awards, voted by fellow professionals, offer a peer-approved snapshot of the season's best.
Looking at positional coverage, the defense is dominated by PSG and Lens, with Hakimi, Pacho, Mendes, and Sarr forming a strong backline. The midfield features Vitinha, Sangaré, and Tolisso, a blend of control and dynamism. Up front, Dembélé and Thauvin provide width, while Greenwood offers versatility. This lineup balances defensive solidity with attacking flair.
For Lens, having four players recognized is a morale boost and a recruitment tool. It signals to potential signings that Lens can develop and showcase talent. For PSG, the five selections affirm their status but also highlight reliance on a settled core. Lyon and Marseille will aim to surround their representatives with more supporting talent next season.
The historical context adds depth. Only the five PSG players return from last year's team, indicating significant turnover elsewhere. That stability gives PSG an edge, but Lens's fresh faces suggest a changing of the guard is possible. The UNFP team has often foreshadowed future success; many past members went on to star in Europe.
As the season ends, this team encapsulates the narrative: PSG's dominance, Lens's surge, and Lyon and Marseille's individual bright spots. The 2025-2026 campaign will be remembered for the high-level competition between the top two. The UNFP team of the season honors those who made it happen.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.
